In a groundbreaking article published on January 24, 2025, in the prestigious journal Environmental Science & Technology, Romain Figuière and his colleagues from Stockholm University in Sweden have made significant progress towards the phase-out of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by meticulously mapping their applications and identifying currently available alternatives.
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” encompass a group of over 10,000 synthetic compounds known for their extreme persistence, widespread environmental distribution, and association with various health issues. Countries like Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway have already taken steps to propose restrictions on the production and use of PFAS, underscoring the urgent need to transition away from these harmful substances while avoiding the pitfalls of regrettable substitutions.
Figuière and his team adopted a strategic and systematic approach to cataloging 325 different applications for PFAS and identifying 40 viable alternatives as of April 2024. This comprehensive overview not only helps pinpoint non-essential uses of PFAS where safer alternatives are readily available but also highlights areas that require further research to find suitable substitutes. The study meticulously examines the functional roles of PFAS in various applications, such as food contact articles and cookware, and proposes alternative solutions based on performance, market availability, and safety considerations.
This research effort culminated in the creation of a freely accessible online database containing detailed information on 1453 PFAS compounds categorized into 18 distinct uses and 325 applications. Common functions served by PFAS include heat stabilization, corrosion inhibition, and waterproofing. The database serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers seeking to navigate the complex landscape of PFAS alternatives.
The timing of FiguieÌ€re’s study is particularly significant in light of recent revelations from the Corporate Europe Observatory and the Forever Lobbying Project, which exposed a coordinated lobbying campaign by the PFAS industry and its allies against proposed EU regulations on PFAS. These findings underscore the critical need for accelerated efforts to identify and promote safer alternatives to potentially harmful PFAS, a cause to which FiguieÌ€re’s research contributes significantly.
In conclusion, Figuière and his co-authors have laid a strong foundation for the transition away from PFAS by meticulously cataloging their applications, identifying viable alternatives, and providing a comprehensive database for reference. Their work not only contributes to ongoing efforts to address PFAS contamination but also underscores the importance of proactive measures to protect human health and the environment from the harmful effects of these persistent chemicals.
References:
Figuière, R., et al. (2025). “An Overview of Potential Alternatives for the Multiple Uses of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.” Environmental Science & Technology. DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c09088
Related Research:
Bălan, S. A.; Bruton, T. A.; Hazard, K. G. (2025). “Hazard Toward a PFAS-free Future: Safer Alternatives to Forever Chemicals.” Royal Society of Chemistry. DOI: 10.1039/9781837671410
