Read the full article by Heather Balogh Rochfort (CNN Underscored)
“When we go hiking or skiing, we’re reliant upon our gear to protect us from the big, bad elements Mother Nature throws our way. And up until recently, a large component of these bombproof protections were some very toxic chemicals known as PFAS, or forever chemicals. Your favorite rain jacket, your trusty ski kit, your impermeable backpacking tent — it doesn’t matter. They’re all likely swimming in PFAS.
‘PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals initially developed in the 1930s,’ says Kyle Postmus, the global senior manager at the National Science Foundation (NSF). ‘Their popularity came from their nonstick, heat-resistant and waterproofing abilities, gaining traction in industries that manufacture clothing, cookware, firefighting foams, housing materials and more.’
People quickly realized PFAS are good at what they do, so they slapped ’em on everything. In the outdoor industry, PFAS have been our go-to waterproof chemicals for apparel and equipment, but they also can be found in everything from makeup and tampons to stain-resistant carpet and pizza boxes.
But not for long. Beginning in 2025, California is banning PFAS in all textiles. According to Safer States, a national alliance of environmental health organizations, at least 36 states are considering more than 450 bills on toxic chemical-related policies, suggesting that even more forever chemical bans are on the way. Beginning in the fall of 2024, outdoor retailer REI Co-op will only sell cookware and many textile products (like clothes, footwear and backpacks) that have no PFAS.
It’s clear that we’re moving away from PFAS on a global scale. But why?” …