Cleaning up PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as forever chemicals, present widespread environmental and health challenges due to their durability. Researchers are developing filtration, trapping, and destruction techniques to remove them from water supplies and soil.
Why it matters
Finding effective ways to eliminate forever chemicals is crucial for mitigating severe health risks such as cancer, fertility issues, and immune system suppression.
Climate change and energy Cleaning up PFAS Ridding the world of forever chemicals could address a range of health and environmental and health woes.
Scrubbing Earth of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—a.k.a. PFAS or forever chemicals—could eliminate a list of woes for people and planet. Used for decades in everything from nonstick pans to firefighting foams, PFAS have been linked to increased risks of fertility challenges, developmental delays , cancer , and reduced immune response . They are known for a strong bond between carbon and fluorine, which the environment struggles to break down.
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