Can we have a world without PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are valued by manufacturers for their ability to repel oils and water, and they have made their way into everything from non-stick cookware to batteries and clothing. However, they rarely leave the news now as the extent of the contamination around the world becomes known. Their exceptional persistence in the environment has meant they have now been found in the deepest parts of the ocean and the high arctic. A recent study found that the EU could spend €100 billion (£85 billion) per year and still only clean up a fraction of PFAS contamination.

Chemistry World talked to Rudy Dams, a former industry scientist at PFAS manufacturer 3M, who was speaking at the 10th EuChemS Chemistry Congress. He told us that non-essential PFAS should be banned and the clean-up process should start, but that we will need to live with these chemicals for essential uses for a while yet.