Your Gear Will Be Illegal Soon, But PFAS-Free Apparel and Shoes Are Here
By Heather Balogh Rochfort, CNN Underscored
Updated 2:29 PM EDT, Fri April 19, 2024
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large class of thousands of synthetic chemicals that are used throughout society. However, they are increasingly detected as contaminants in the environment and in human bodies, and they have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and immune system dysfunction.
As a result, governments around the world are taking steps to regulate PFAS. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering a ban on all non-essential uses of PFAS. The European Union is also considering a ban on PFAS in all consumer products.
If these bans are implemented, it will mean that many common products, including clothing, shoes, and cookware, will be illegal to manufacture or sell. However, there are already a number of companies that are developing PFAS-free alternatives to these products.
One such company is PACT, which makes a line of organic cotton clothing and shoes. PACT's products are certified to be free of PFAS and other harmful chemicals.
"We believe that everyone deserves to wear clothing that is safe for their health and the environment," said PACT CEO Brendan Synnott. "Our PFAS-free clothing is a great option for people who are looking for a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional clothing."
Other companies that are making PFAS-free products include Patagonia, REI, and The North Face. These companies are offering a growing range of PFAS-free clothing, shoes, and other gear.
The availability of PFAS-free products is good news for consumers who are concerned about the health risks associated with PFAS. It is also good news for the environment, as PFAS are a major source of pollution.
Conclusion
The ban on PFAS is a major step forward in protecting human health and the environment. Consumers who are concerned about the risks of PFAS should look for products that are certified to be PFAS-free. By doing so, they can help to reduce their exposure to these harmful chemicals and support companies that are committed to sustainability.
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