An important new article was recently published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters: the “Scientists’ Statement on the Chemical Definition of PFASs.” This statement responds to recent proposals to narrow the definition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which could potentially exclude certain types from regulatory oversight.
The authors express concern that these redefinition efforts may be driven more by politics than science. A narrower definition—such as the one being considered by IUPAC—could undermine the broader, science-based definition established by the OECD in 2021. This shift could weaken environmental and public health protections by legitimizing less comprehensive policies.
Learn more about the IUPAC PFAS project: https://iupac.org/project/2024-006-3-100
The statement urges the scientific community to uphold the OECD definition, which remains clear, robust, and widely accepted. Specific exemptions can still be made without altering the core definition.
✅ Support this effort by signing the statement and encouraging your colleagues to do the same. Let’s ensure science—not politics—guides our environmental protections.
