Are PFAS forever chemicals? The short answer is yes—but the full picture is even more concerning. These persistent chemicals resist breaking down, accumulate in the environment, and pose serious health risks.
From drinking water contamination to long-term exposure risks, PFAS have become a global environmental challenge. Used in a wide range of industries and consumer products, these chemicals do not degrade easily, making them difficult to remove from soil, water, and even the human body.
This blog will explore what PFAS are, why they are called “forever chemicals,” where they are found, and how businesses and property owners can manage the risks associated with them.
What Are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals used in many products for their water- and stain-resistant properties. From non-stick cookware and food packaging to firefighting foams and waterproof clothing, PFAS have been a staple in manufacturing since the 1940s. Despite their usefulness, these chemicals come with a hidden cost: they do not readily biodegrade in the environment or the human body, leading to long-term exposure risks.
Why Are PFAS Forever Chemicals, and Can They Be Removed?
PFAS are called “forever chemicals” due to their unique chemical structure. PFAS contain strong carbon-fluorine bonds, one of the most durable chemical bonds. This bond makes them resistant to heat, water, and oil, but it also means they do not degrade naturally over time.
When PFAS enter the environment—whether through industrial discharge, consumer products, or firefighting activities—they accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms. Once in the human body, PFAS can linger for years, contributing to potential health issues such as hormone disruption, immune system suppression, and even certain cancers.
How Can PFAS Be Removed?
Despite their reputation as “forever chemicals,” there are several ways to manage and reduce PFAS contamination:
Activated Carbon Filtration: A widely used method for removing PFAS from drinking water, this process uses specially treated carbon to trap PFAS molecules.
Ion Exchange Resins: These materials attract and remove PFAS from water sources more effectively than traditional filters.
Reverse Osmosis: This filtration method can remove PFAS from drinking water but is typically used on a small scale.
Soil and Groundwater Remediation: Techniques such as soil excavation, in-situ chemical oxidation, and bioremediation can help mitigate PFAS contamination in land and water sources.
Regulatory Actions and Compliance: As regulations tighten, businesses can reduce PFAS exposure by switching to safer alternatives and conducting regular environmental assessments.
While completely eliminating PFAS from the environment remains a challenge, these solutions play a critical role in managing contamination and protecting public health.
Where Are PFAS Found in Everyday Life?
PFAS are virtually everywhere, from household products to industrial sites. Common sources include:
Non-stick cookware
Water-resistant clothing and textiles
Food packaging materials
Firefighting foams (especially at airports and military bases)
Stain-resistant carpets and upholstery
Contaminated drinking water
Because PFAS are so widespread and persistent, contamination can affect entire communities, posing serious environmental and health risks.
How Are PFAS Managed and Can They Be Eliminated?
Due to growing awareness of PFAS-related risks, regulatory agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have introduced guidelines and restrictions on their use. However, because PFAS are so widespread and persistent, managing contamination is an ongoing challenge.
Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) play a crucial role in identifying PFAS contamination on properties, especially for industrial sites, military facilities, and areas near known sources of PFAS discharge. Comprehensive testing and remediation strategies are essential to reduce exposure and prevent further contamination.
PFAS FAQ
Can PFAS be removed from drinking water? Yes, methods like activated carbon filtration and reverse osmosis can reduce PFAS in water sources.
Are there alternatives to PFAS in consumer products? Many companies are developing PFAS-free alternatives for food packaging, non-stick cookware, and textiles.
What Are the Risks of PFAS Exposure?
Bioaccumulation: PFAS build up in animals and humans over time, moving through the food chain and increasing exposure levels.
Water Contamination: PFAS can seep into groundwater, affecting drinking water supplies for entire regions.
Health Impacts: Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to liver damage, immune system issues, thyroid disease, and certain cancers.
Protecting Your Property and Health From PFAS
Understanding “are PFAS forever chemicals” is the first step in addressing their risks. If you are a property owner, investor, or developer, assessing potential PFAS contamination before purchasing or developing land is vital.
At Creative Environmental Solutions, Inc. (CES), we specialize in identifying environmental risks, including PFAS contamination, through Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments. Our team of geologists and environmental experts ensures you have the information you need to make informed decisions, protect your investment, and safeguard your health.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you manage PFAS risks and navigate environmental compliance.
