This article explores the dangers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as forever chemicals, found in outdoor gear like jackets. It discusses the health risks associated with these chemicals, their prevalence in water sources, and the outdoor industry's role in their contamination. The article also highlights recent legislative changes and what consumers can do to advocate for safer products.
In recent years, awareness has grown about the dangers of certain chemicals used in everyday products, particularly in outdoor gear. One of the most concerning groups of these chemicals is known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as forever chemicals due to their persistence in the environment and human body. This article delves into the implications of these chemicals, particularly in outdoor apparel, and what consumers can do to mitigate their exposure.
Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are a group of over 15,000 synthetic compounds that have been used since the 1940s in various consumer products. They are known for their water- and grease-resistant properties, making them popular in items like non-stick cookware, food packaging, stain-resistant carpets, and, notably, outdoor gear such as jackets.
Research has linked PFAS exposure to a range of serious health issues, including:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that there is no acceptable level of certain PFAS in drinking water, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
Despite the known risks, many outdoor brands continue to use PFAS in their products. For instance, Gore-Tex, a leading manufacturer of waterproof jackets, claims that their products are stable and do not shed PFAS. However, skepticism remains about the long-term safety of these claims.
To investigate the prevalence of PFAS in outdoor gear, a series of tests were conducted. A homemade rain chamber was created to test a new Gore-Tex jacket for PFAS shedding. The results were alarming: after running distilled water through the jacket, several PFAS chemicals were detected, including levels of PFOA that should have been phased out.
The testing extended beyond just gear. Water samples were taken from various sources, including:
The findings revealed concerning levels of PFAS in these water sources:
These results indicate that PFAS contamination is widespread, even in seemingly pristine environments.
In response to growing concerns, states like California and New York have enacted legislation to restrict PFAS in clothing. Additionally, outdoor retailer REI has pledged to stop selling products containing PFAS, putting pressure on manufacturers to seek safer alternatives.
Gore-Tex has begun producing PFAS-free membranes, signaling a shift in the industry. However, with REI representing only a fraction of the outdoor gear market, many brands still produce items that may contain these harmful chemicals.
Consumers can take several actions to advocate for safer outdoor gear:
The presence of forever chemicals in outdoor gear poses significant health and environmental risks. As consumers, we have the power to influence change by demanding safer products and supporting legislation aimed at reducing PFAS contamination. By staying informed and proactive, we can help protect ourselves and the environment from these toxic substances.
