Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are known as Forever Chemicals. They consist of 10,000+ substances used in industries, such as packaging and delivery, cookware, textiles, cosmetics, electronics, construction, and more.

These are highly persistent chemicals that don’t decompose, making complete disposal nearly impossible. PFAS leaves residue and particles that integrate with water and soil. Researchers have found these chemicals in the blood of humans and wildlife all around the world and have linked them to diseases like cancer and heart conditions, as well as reproductive and immune system issues.

What are PFAS?

The first PFAS chemical created in 1946 is Teflon, which is used in manufacturing non-stick cookware. Since then, we have seen a rise in non-stick, stain-repellent, and waterproof materials, which will stay in the environment for thousands of years without degenerating or decomposing.

What makes PFAS so hazardous is the fact that we use and consume these chemicals every day without knowing the harm.

Forever Chemicals in Construction

The construction industry relies on PFAS for several purposes, primarily because of their unique properties. One prevalent application is in the production of certain building materials. PFAS-based coatings and sealants provide surfaces with desirable characteristics, such as water resistance, durability, and non-stick properties. These qualities make them useful for waterproofing, stain protection, and fireproofing.

However, PFAS and their harmful aftereffects demand the need to look for non-chemical alternatives.

• Surface treatments such as those applied to parking garages and bridges may incorporate PFAS like resin-based fluorocarbons, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and fluorinated acrylic polymers to repel water and resist corrosion. Greased silicon, epoxy, polyester, phenolic, and acrylic are alternatives to these fluorinated sealants, which can help reduce environmental damage while extending the structure’s lifespan.

• PFAS-containing products are also utilized in foam insulation. While these materials offer excellent thermal properties, their pervasive presence raises concerns about potential indoor air quality issues and long-term environmental impact. Instead, construction and design companies can explore non-toxic insulation options, including natural wool, cellular glass, cork, cementitious foams, and more.

PFAS building materials have been a staple in the construction industry for over a decade. From roofing, flooring, and building facades to paints, caulks, and adhesives, these toxic chemicals have been persistent, inadvertently causing health concerns in humans and harming the environment. It’s time we start promoting eco-friendly alternatives to reduce carbon footprint and save our ecosystem.

Forever Chemicals in Other Industries

Industries such as packaging, cosmetics, textile manufacturing, furniture, and electronics use PFAS on a large scale. To elaborate, waterproof face products, stain-resistant furniture and carpets, cardboard wrappers for fast food and baked goods, flame-retardant gadgets, wirings, and more contain high levels of fluorine that industries such as packaging, cosmetics, textile manufacturing, furniture, and electronics use on a large scale.

We use these products in our day-to-day lives and unknowingly absorb chemical residue left behind by PFAS. This leads to an increase in severe health issues.

Environmental and Health Concerns

Despite their utility, the environmental and health implications of PFAS are profound. The detection of these compounds in soil, water, and air samples worldwide highlights their widespread distribution. Concerns regarding their bioaccumulative nature and potential adverse health effects have prompted regulatory scrutiny and calls for stricter controls on their use.

In the construction industry, the risks associated with PFAS extend beyond environmental contamination to include occupational exposure. Workers involved in the application of PFAS-containing materials may face inhalation or dermal exposure, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes over time.

Also Read: Bangalore Water Crisis: What We Can Do

Regulatory Response and Industry Trends

In India, awareness of the environmental and health impacts of PFAS is growing, leading to initial steps by regulatory bodies like the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to address these challenges. Although specific PFAS regulations are still emerging, efforts are underway to create guidelines for their use and disposal. State pollution control boards and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) are conducting studies to assess contamination levels, aiming to align with international standards and best practices.

In response to regulatory scrutiny and increased public awareness, the Indian construction industry is beginning to shift away from PFAS-based products. Key industry players, such as architecture and landscaping firms are exploring eco-friendly alternatives and investing in research and development for non-toxic materials. The government is supporting this initiative by promoting green construction practices through organizations like the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and advocating for safer, sustainable building materials.

Conclusion

The pervasive presence of “forever chemicals” in the construction industry underscores the need for proactive measures to address their environmental and health impacts. While Forever Chemicals offer valuable performance benefits, their persistence, and potential risks necessitate a comprehensive approach to risk management and regulation. At Indeville Design Studio, we have been using eco-friendly and sustainable construction materials and methods to prioritize our customers’ well-being and reduce environmental damage. By embracing innovation and sustainability, our construction industry can mitigate its reliance on PFAS and adopt responsible practices for the welfare of society.