Mikhail: ‘Forever chemical’ is an environmental threat that is now in your blood

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Global environmental challenges are usually thought of as out-of control carbon emissions, deforestation, oceanic pollution and single-use plastics. A wide range of synthetic chemicals are also a threat to the natural world and human health. They are commonly known as forever chemicals. This is because they do not naturally break down in the atmosphere or in our bodies.

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The most popular Are PFASsTeflon is part of the, a group that includes more than 9,000 chemicals. Teflon is known for its nonstick properties and has been used in many different areas. However, it is most commonly used as a coating on frying Pans. The chemicals migrateWhen the food is heated, they can get into the pan and then build up in your bloodstream. A study found that PFAS is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In the bloodstreamCanada’s population was 98.5 per cent in the Water supplyAt least 49 American States Even on Mount Everest.

PFAS are Common inDisposable food packaging and cosmetics are the most common forms of contact, followed by cookware and disposable food packaging. But industrial waste is where the highest levels of exposure occur. then infiltratesThe soil, groundwater and surface water in the surrounding area. The chemicals then rise up the food chain, bioaccumulating when contaminated crops are given to livestock. This is then eaten by people. PFAS are a potential danger There are many health risksThese substances can cause serious health problems in humans, including increased risk of miscarriage, low birthweights of infants, poor bone health in children, kidney disease and immune system disorders, hormonal disruptions as well as liver damage, hypertension, and immunotoxicity. These substances are also thought to becarcinogenic.

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Despite the potential health hazards associated with PFAS there are very few safeguards to protect both the environment and the public’s health. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency set a limit for PFAS in drinking waters at 70 parts per trillion (ppt), and Canada has set it at 1,000 ppt. However there are no standard screening guidelines that can be used to assess risks. In fact, over 6300 of these PFAS are still on the market. Absolutely unregulated. Trade secrets are kept about the details of their use, toxicology, and molecular structure.

2020: Milk was tested for PFAS on a contaminated dairy farm in Maine. The levels exceeded 32,000ppt, more than 150 times the state limit of 210ppt. Canadian surface waters also contain significant amounts of PFAS. Arctic residents are especially at risk due to their habit of eating many marine animals.

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Although there are many ways to remove PFAS from the environment, and more are being developed with the advancements in technology, these methods are extremely costly and won’t be of much use as long as the chemicals continue to be used in the environment. Strong legislation and enforcement are necessary to make cleanup solutions work.

The government of Canada will be abolished in 2021 Promised to investPFAS monitoring and research are still ongoing. However, more must be done to hold toxic chemical manufacturers accountable for the harm they have caused. The government should not bear the burden of proof but the companies to ensure their safety.

PFAS are not allowed to be manufactured in Canada. However there are significant policy gaps to allow them to imported and used in large quantities. These loopholes must be closed. Governments and companies should also invest in safer alternatives and uniform monitoring methods for PFAS levels within the environment and food chain. Only then can cleanup efforts be successful.

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It is crucial to not only ensure that there are strong laws and enforcement, and to seek safe alternatives, but also to consider the social justice, environmental justice, and human rights dimensions of this complex issue. This will ensure that everyone, especially the most vulnerable, is considered and valued in decision-making and any subsequent actions. There is no better time than now to address the many environmental challenges that humanity faces.

Mila MikhailI am a student at University of Ottawa majoring environmental studies.