Forever Chemicals in Rainwater: A Global Threat to Human Health

By Nicholas Vincent | One Green Planet | November 26, 2023

Read the full article by Nicholas Vincent (One Green Planet)

"The presence of “Forever Chemicals” or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in rainwater has emerged as a significant environmental concern. These chemicals are so named due to their persistent nature, and recent studies indicate their alarming ubiquity in our environment, particularly in rainwater, posing risks to human health and ecosystems. This widespread contamination underscores the urgency for immediate action and deeper research into the long-term effects of PFAS on our planet and our health.

The Science Behind PFAS

Developed in the 1940s, PFAS found widespread application in various industries, valued for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. However, the durability of these chemicals, coupled with their ability to persist in the environment and accumulate in living organisms, has led to almost universal environmental contamination. The widespread use of PFAS in products ranging from non-stick cookware to firefighting foams further exacerbates the issue, making these chemicals almost impossible to avoid in daily life."