Approved work: Regulation and remediation of ‘forever’ chemicals

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a diverse group of over 10,000 synthetic chemicals known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment. These compounds, characterised by strong carbon-fluorine bonds, resist degradation and accumulate in organisms, bioaccumulating up the food chain. The widespread use of PFAS has led to global dispersion through atmospheric deposition and regional spread via soil and water systems, with increasing evidence of impacts on humans and wildlife.

This POSTnote will outline the evidence base and knowledge gaps on PFAS sources, the pathways of PFAS dispersal and the impacts of human and wildlife exposure. It will also summarise different technological approaches emerging for PFAS remediation and the challenges and opportunities for implementing a PFAS remediation strategy for heavily contaminated sites in the UK.

Work will commence in January 2025, with publication expected in April 2025.  We will accept stakeholder contributions until 17 February 2025.