Persistent Harmful 'Forever' Chemicals Discovered in Indoor Spaces Such as Homes, Workplaces, and Educational Institutions, According to Recent Research
Indoor air may harbor harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of persistent chemicals found ubiquitously in modern environments, according to a new study. Researchers from the University of Rhode Island and the Green Science Policy Institute discovered these chemicals can evaporate into the air and infiltrate various indoor spaces, such as classrooms, offices, and homes.
The findings suggest inhalation could represent another pathway for PFAS to accumulate in the human body, which research has linked to several health issues, including cancer. PFAS, known as "forever" chemicals due to their resistance to degradation, are used in manufacturing and often found as byproducts of other chemicals or contaminants in various products, particularly plastics.
The study's authors developed a new testing method to measure PFAS levels in indoor air. They found significant amounts of these chemicals across all environments tested, with the highest levels found in carpet stores, where manufacturers traditionally use PFAS as stain and water repellents. Surprisingly, some classrooms and offices displayed higher levels than an outdoor clothing store storage room, where clothes treated with PFAS are kept.
The findings, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters, indicate that reducing PFAS exposure indoors requires proactive behavior, informed consumer choices, and targeted interventions spanning various industries. Strategies include selecting PFAS-free products, improving indoor air quality, filtering drinking water effectively, reducing dust, and advocating for regulation and transparency. By implementing these strategies, individuals can significantly decrease their exposure to PFAS in indoor environments.
There has been recent progress in reducing PFAS use, with carpet manufacturers and retailers like Home Depot curtailing or eliminating their use in carpeting. However, widespread action across multiple manufacturing industries is necessary to make a meaningful impact on exposure levels.
While these strategies can help reduce PFAS exposure, it's important to note that little is known about the specific sources of PFAS indoors. Regular ventilation, frequent cleaning, and choosing PFAS-free products are useful measures, but they are not entirely successful in eliminating exposure. The study's author, Rainer Lohmann, emphasized the need for further research into the mechanisms and sources of indoor PFAS pollution to develop more effective mitigation strategies.
- Gizmodo reported on the study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, which discovered high levels of PFAS, a group of harmful chemicals, in indoor air, such as classrooms, offices, and even carpet stores.
- The researchers believe that inhalation could be a significant pathway for PFAS to accumulate in the human body, linking it to several health issues, including cancer.
- To measure PFAS levels in indoor air, the study's authors developed a new testing method and found significant amounts across all environments tested, with carpet stores having the highest levels.
- Going forward, reducing PFAS exposure indoors requires proactive behavior, informed consumer choices, and targeted interventions across multiple industries, including choosing PFAS-free products, improving indoor air quality, and advocating for regulation and transparency in manufacturing processes.
