Pollution from pesticides, plastics and electronic waste is causing widespread human rights violations as well as at least 9 million premature deaths a year, a U.N. environmental report published on February 15 said.
- The report urges a ban on polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalky1 (PFAS), dubbed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily.
What are “forever chemicals (PFAS)?
- PFAS are a large chemical family of over 9,000 highly persistent chemicals that don’t occur in nature.
- These manmade substances are used in household products such as nonstick cookware and have been linked to cancer.
- This group of synthetic chemicals are used to prevent corrosion, reduce friction and make products waterproof and stain-resistant.
- They are used in the top layer of solar panels, artificial grass and firefighting foams.
- PFAS’ incredibly strong carbon-flourine bonds mean these chemicals do not biodegrade.
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