PFAS: Why the hysteria?

Consider this: as recently as a year ago, the term “PFAS” was relatively unknown to many lawyers, engineers and other environmental professionals. So, what is PFAS? PFAS is the acronym for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a family of more than 5,000 man-made chemicals. Based on their persistence in the environment, PFAS are often referred to as forever chemicals. Few recent environmental issues have caught the attention of industry, regulators, environmental professionals and the media like PFAS. In fact, some have even questioned whether the frenzy to address PFAS impacts is outpacing the toxicological understanding of these substances.

Why the hysteria?

The following are seven reasons, as well as many points of reference, that help explain the current PFAS landscape in the U.S.:

1. PFAS are still new...

2. PFAS contamination is alarming...

3. PFAS are already in our blood...

4. PFAS are functioning as designed...

5. The federal government is not leading...

6. PFAS litigation has produced breathtaking settlements...

7. No easy solution for PFAS contamination...

What the future holds...

   ...more

Ken Notes: Must read, share and bookmark this one! Outlines the problem succinctly. Remember we may be identifying the problem before we have cost effective solutions...