Ski slopes face environmental threat from chemical-laden waxes

A recent study reveals that toxic 'forever chemicals' used in ski waxes are contaminating snowy slopes.

Daniel Drage reports for The Conversation.


In short:

  • 'Forever chemicals,' known as PFAS, are found in ski waxes and have been detected in snow and soil in skiing areas.
  • These chemicals are extremely persistent, posing potential health risks to humans and wildlife, including links to cancers and hormonal disruptions.
  • Despite a ban in professional sports, these chemicals continue to spread in recreational skiing, highlighting the need for broader regulatory measures.

Why this matters:

This issue underscores the pervasive nature of environmental pollutants and their impact on health. It's a stark reminder of the hidden dangers in recreational activities and the importance of regulating harmful substances for public safety and environmental preservation.

From construction to skiing, PFAS are an important, but understudied, source of on-the-job chemical exposure.

About the author(s):

EHN Curators
EHN Curators
Articles curated and summarized by the Environmental Health News' curation team. Some AI-based tools helped produce this text, with human oversight, fact checking and editing.

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