PFAS Compliance & Reporting Solution

What are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, constitute a category of synthetic aliphatic organic compounds renowned for their water- and grease-resistant and also heat-resistant attributes. This extensive group encompasses more than 10,000 substances, including notable ones like PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid), PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS). Due to their enduring nature or the persistence of their degradation byproducts in the environment, they are often referred to as persistent organic pollutants or colloquially as "forever chemicals."

Health and Environmental Concerns

Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have gained prominence due to their concerning impact on health, water, and the environment. Research underscores the potential health risks linked to PFAS exposure, associating them with reproductive problems, cancer, and adverse immune system effects.

The environmental challenge posed by PFAS contamination in water sources is significant. Their resistance to breakdown leads to persistent pollution, affecting groundwater and drinking water. Air contamination is another concern, with manufacturing facilities and certain PFAS-containing products contributing to the release of these substances into the atmosphere.

Which products contain PFAS?

PFAS are integral for manufacturing, offering water, grease, and dirt resistance, along with heat resilience. They find application in various everyday products, including non-stick cookware, fire-fighting foam, food packaging, rain jackets, waxes, lubricants, electronic devices, and many more.

What are the Regulatory Risks for Companies?

Proposed regulations across Europe, North America, and states like California underscore the increasing emphasis on PFAS safety, driving the need for proactive measures, for example, the new PFAS TSCA Reporting Rule introduced in the US in November 2023 or the PFAS regulation in the EU through REACH and POP. These regulatory efforts, whether at the federal or state level, pose significant challenges for business, affecting operational dynamics and product development strategies. Navigating the landscape requires efforts such as sourcing alternative materials, redesigning products, or even removing them from the market, all while adhering to evolving ESG standards. Furthermore, compliance often entails registering, reporting, or disclosing product substances, reflecting the overarching focus on safety and environmental responsibility.