Me-FAS, You-FAS, We All Eat PFAS: What To Do About the Forever Chemical

Authors

  • Noel M. Johnson

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/tlp.2021.247

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl, more commonly known as PFAS, has been found in the blood of 95% of the population. PFAS is a family of over 3,000 human-made chemicals. One chemical in the PFAS family, PFOA, is most well-known for its use in Teflon products and has been the subject of multiple litigations. While PFOA has been phased out of production in the United States due to its known negative human health effects, other PFAS that are just as harmful are now used in place of PFOA. The molecular structure of PFAS contains strong bonds that are difficult to break down through natural processes. This characteristic makes PFAS both extremely helpful to industrial processes and harmful to human health and the environment. Because of its resiliency, PFAS remain in the environment long after initial release. Its stability and endurance have led scientists to dub PFAS as “the forever chemical.” This Note explores the history of PFAS production in the United States and concludes with potential regulatory action that can be taken to limit human exposure to PFAS.

Author Biography

Noel M. Johnson

Noel Johnson is a J.D. Candidate for the Class of 2022 with a concentration in environmental law at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. She is the incoming Executive Editor of the Pittsburgh Journal of Technology Law and Policy and worked as an environmental consultant prior to law school. Special thanks to Professor Ann Sinsheimer, Emily Davidson, Anokhy Desai, and Kendra Campbell for all the feedback and support.

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Published

2021-05-19

How to Cite

Johnson, N. M. (2021). Me-FAS, You-FAS, We All Eat PFAS: What To Do About the Forever Chemical. Pittsburgh Journal of Technology Law & Policy, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.5195/tlp.2021.247

Issue

Section

Staff Article Series