A cross-border investigation reveals that industry lobbying efforts, including funded research and exaggerated economic claims, are slowing attempts to regulate PFAS chemicals linked to environmental contamination and health concerns.
Rachel Salvidge and Leana Hosea report for The Guardian.
In short:
- A proposal from five European nations aims to regulate all PFAS as a group due to their persistence in the environment.
- The fluoropolymer industry claims that a ban would harm key sectors like renewable energy, but experts argue that viable alternatives exist for many uses.
- Lobbying has overwhelmed regulatory processes, with thousands of submissions and claims that some regulations lack economic consideration of health and cleanup costs.
Key quote:
“The ‘no alternatives to fluoropolymers’ claims are used by lobbyists as broad statements to frame the policy debate … They are then rehashed by allies and business advocates, making them look like they enjoy wide support. Creating an echo chamber of rehashed arguments is a well-known tool in the corporate disinformation playbook”
— Prof. Gary Fooks, University of Bristol
Why this matters:
PFAS chemicals, known as "forever chemicals," are found in water, wildlife and human blood worldwide. Stronger regulations could prevent further contamination, but industry pushback may delay action, increasing cleanup costs and health risks.
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