Forever Chemicals

Forever chemicals are a class of chemical substances that are highly persistent in the environment and do not break down easily over time. These chemicals are called forever chemicals because they remain in the environment virtually indefinitely, persisting for decades or even centuries.

The most well-known group of forever chemicals are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which are used in a wide range of industrial and consumer products, such as firefighting foam, non-stick coatings, and water-repellent textiles. PFASs have been found in drinking water, food, and air, and are known to be toxic to humans and the environment.

Forever chemicals pose a significant challenge to environmental and human health, as they accumulate in the food chain and can lead to long-term exposure to toxic substances. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and reproductive and developmental problems.

Efforts are underway to regulate and reduce the use of forever chemicals, but the persistence of these substances in the environment means that they will continue to pose a risk for many years to come. To address this challenge, there is a growing need for innovative technologies and strategies to manage and mitigate the impact of these chemicals on human health and the environment.