BREAKING NEWS PFAS: A challenge for Europe, a threat to health and the environment
The PFASnicknamed " eternal pollutants "These chemicals are a major health and environmental crisis. Present in many everyday products such as waterproof clothing, non-stick utensils and certain food packaging, these chemicals are difficult to break down, accumulating in soil, water and even the human body.
A devastating impact on health
PFAS are associated with increased health risks, including impaired thyroid function, increased cholesterol and cancers, particularly kidney and testicular cancers. Prolonged exposure can also affect fertility.
To reduce exposure, it is advisable to avoid products containing these substances and to favour local organic alternatives. In addition, the installation of certified filtration systems capable of eliminating PFAS is particularly recommended in high-risk areas such as the south of Lyon.
A colossal environmental challenge for Europe
According to an article published by AFP 14 January 2025To clean up soil and water contaminated by PFAS in Europe could cost between 95 and 2,000 billion euros over 20 years (Source). This estimate, the result of a survey coordinated by Le Monde and other European media, highlights the scale of the problem. More than 23,000 contaminated sites have already been identified across the continent, and the cost could rise if pollution continues to increase.
Current technologies, such as activated carbon filtration or high-temperature incineration, are costly, energy-intensive and still inadequate given the scale of the damage. For the NGO Zero Waste Europe, limiting PFAS emissions now is imperative to avoid even more costly consequences in the long term.
To find out more: LAVIE launches a new range: say goodbye to PFAS and heavy metals
A political response in preparation
Faced with this crisis, a European legislation is in preparation and should be in place by the end of 2025. It provides for a strict framework for the use of PFASs, with bans on thousands of components. However, exceptions are envisaged, particularly in the medical field, where these substances are considered essential.
Despite this, the chemical industry is waging an intense lobbying campaign to restrict the scope of these measures. According to the NGO ClientEarth, this pressure threatens to water down regulations that are vital for public health and the environment.
A call for collective action
To protect health and the environment, action is needed at all levels:
- Support initiatives to ban PFAS in consumer products and industrial processes.
- Adopt individual solutions such as using certified water purifiers or eating local and organic produce.
Our solution: Opropre Turquoise
- Raise public awareness of this crisis to encourage a rapid transition to safer alternatives.
The fight against PFAS is a major challenge, but it is also an opportunity to reinvent our lifestyles for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Article written on 24/01/2025 by Pascal Nuti - CIO Solable - Passionate about energy, I'm constantly on the lookout for new targets for improvement, exploring cross-disciplinary paths using novel methods.
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