On this guide
This is an introductory level guide to the chemicals known as "Forever Chemicals", PFAS is one of the most common.
There are reports, videos, and resources for learning more. At this time in 2023, new focus has been put on these harmful ingredients to many consumer and industrial products. A few podcasts and news sources are included here too, but more will likely be created.
Recommendations for this guide are welcome.
What are PFAS?
- What are PFAS?from Environmental Health News
per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (pfas), known as "forever chemicals" are found in food, clothing, water and so many of our everyday products.
Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), also known as C8 are some of the most common. Teflon is one of the well known products containing these chemicals.
- How PFAS Can Harm Your HealthEven at low levels, these chemicals have been linked to kidney disease, lowered immunity in kids, and a variety of other health concerns
Consumer Reports, March 24, 2022
Overview/Background
Forever Chemicals by Call Number: eBookISBN: 9781000405453Publication Date: 2021provides the reader with an understanding of the complex and interwoven issues associated with per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS) in our environment. The chapters provide in-depth perspective into various issues, including health, regulation, detection, clean-up strategies and technologies, and more.
Key websites
These sites contain information on research.
- Social Science Environmental Health Research InstituteNortheastern University
- PFAS ExchangeSilent Spring Institute
An online resource center about PFAS contaminants in drinking water—helping communities understand their exposures and take action to protect their health. - PFAS-Tox Databasehealth and toxicology data on PFAS
Videos, podcasts
- John Oliver [YouTube]Last Week Tonight, October 2021
- STINK! The Dark Secrets of the Chemical Industry2015
...takes you on a madcap journey from the retailer to the laboratory, through corporate boardrooms, down back alleys, and into the halls of Congress.
2 more to find
The Devil We Know – PFAS documentary
Dark Waters – film dramatization of PFAS case, Mark Ruffalo, led to action. See this site.
