Part 1 – PFAS in focus: An overview of PFAS, water pollution, and related regulations

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic organic chemicals that contain in their structure a carbon-fluorine link, the strongest known link in organic chemistry. This bond gives PFAS characteristics – such as resistance to water, grease, and heat – that have led to their use in numerous applications across various industries. The strong carbon-fluorine link also makes PFAS very resistant to degradation, and this resistance allows PFAS to stay in the environment and in living beings for long periods of time.

This strength also means that PFAS move easily across water, soil, and air, and they have been tied to environmental pollution and health issues. Water pollution is especially concerning because it is one of the main sources of exposure for humans and other living beings, and it plays an important role in the dispersal of PFAS. The extent of PFAS water pollution across the world is unclear. While some research has been done, gaps remain, but scientists agree that PFAS pollution touches most water bodies in the world.

Countries and regions across the world have been increasingly focusing on restricting the use of PFAS and remediating its pollution. Regulations targeting PFAS in water have become a large area of focus across regions, and more extensive regulations have been proposed. We expect that the number of regulations around the world will increase alongside rising interest in PFAS and research showing their damage.

Breaking down PFAS

This report is part 1 in a three-part series on PFAS. Visit the complete series here: Breaking down PFAS