UK inquiry on PFAS closes this month

The UK Environmental Audit Committee is welcoming input on the risks from Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) before 26 May.

PFAS covers about 14,000 synthetic chemicals used in a wide variety of everyday products. Some industrial gases, such as HFCs and HFOs, are classified as PFAS.

Since they do not degrade easily in the environment, they have often been referred to as ‘forever chemicals’.

The inquiry will consider whether enough is being done to address the risks of PFAS in the UK, and whether research institutions and the UK’s Environment Agency are equipped to detect and monitor their impact.