Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) : GS TIMES IAS-PCS

Why in News?

Studies conducted in different parts of India have detected PFAS in water sources. However, the extent of PFAS contamination across India remains unclear, and conventional water treatment systems capable of removing these compounds are not yet commercially available (The Hindu).

About PFAS

Definition: According to the UNEP, PFAS are synthetic, man-made chemical compounds containing multiple carbon–fluorine bonds. They form a large family of fluorinated chemicals with partially or completely fluorinated carbon chains of varying lengths.
Applications: They are used in coatings, textiles and several industrial products because of their resistance to heat, water, grease and friction, as well as their fire-retardant and stain-resistant properties.
Persistence: PFAS are highly resistant to degradation and can remain in the environment for very long periods, earning them the nickname “forever pollutants.”
Environmental contamination: They can spread through air, water and soil, exposing humans, wildlife and the environment long after their release.
Health impacts: PFAS have been linked to cancer, reproductive harm, immune-system damage and other serious health problems, even at low levels.

PFAS under the Stockholm Convention

Three PFAS subgroups currently listed under the Stockholm Convention as industrial Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are: