PFAS, the Invisible Threats in Our Daily Lives!
Over 10,000 chemical substances are hidden behind the abbreviation PFAS. These substances, known for their water, grease, and dirt-repellent properties, sneak into various aspects of our lives, from the kitchen to outdoor clothing.
The Ubiquity of PFAS
Teflon pans, outdoor clothing (textiles), paints, impregnations, ski wax, colors, carpets, cosmetics, to-go cups, pizza boxes, plastics, electronics, battery manufacturing, solar cells, firefighting foam, cleaning agents, galvanization, car air conditioners, baking paper, pesticides—the list is endless.
These chemicals cannot break down and persist in the environment.
It is alarming that 98% of the world's population already carries these chemicals in their blood.
Health Risks and Environmental Impact
These invisible dangers accumulate in our organs and can cause serious health damage. From infertility to allergies, thyroid damage, reduced immune response, liver and kidney damage, to cancer—the impacts are diverse. Even the environmental effects are dramatic as PFAS contaminates groundwater, thus entering our drinking water.
The Invisible Threat in Our Food and Drink
Exposure to PFAS mainly occurs through drinking water and food. Both animal and plant-based foods are affected as soils and waters are contaminated by these chemicals.
The coating of paper with PFAS means that these substances are ingested by people daily through "to-go" and "home-delivered food" in substantial amounts!
A Glimpse into the Future
Although PFOS and PFOA are mostly banned in Europe, they are still widespread. The term "forever chemicals" illustrates their extreme longevity.
Even in Switzerland, these chemicals are present, as studies by the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) show.
Environmental Protection through Education
To protect ourselves from the risks, we must understand how PFAS infiltrates our lives. The introduction of limits for certain PFAS in animal products and drinking water from 2024 and 2026 respectively in Switzerland and Europe is a first step. Nevertheless, awareness and individual protection are essential.
Individual Protection: Water Filtration
Given the challenges of contaminated drinking water, I have opted for a water filter that, among other things, eliminates these chemicals.
If you'd like to learn more about my filtration system, click here (only in German): ARCTICA
Dark Waters: A Call for Vigilance
If you want to see the devastating effects of PFAS in the USA, I recommend watching the movie "Dark Waters."
It's time to become aware of this invisible threat and take action to protect your health and the environment!
