PFAS in Solid Waste & Recycling

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are a group of man-made chemicals, commonly known as "forever chemicals", that are found in many household products such as personal care items, waterproof footwear/clothing, stain-resistant carpeting or fabrics, non-stick cookware, and some food packaging. PFAS contamination can be found in food, drinking water, indoor dust, some consumer products, and workplaces. Recently, these chemicals have been found in people. wildlife, and fish all over the world. Once they enter a system, they may stay in people's bodies and/or the environment for extended periods of time due to their resistance to breaking down.

 

Although landfills, waste/recycling facilities, or composting sites do not directly produce PFAS or the materials that contain it, they continue to receive PFAS-containing products at the end of their life. As a result, solid waste professionals are learning how to responsibly and safely dispose of and eliminate these chemicals, as well as helping people understand the issue and take action to reduce exposure.