Sierra Club Robert Lunz Group

 

 

FOCUS ON PFAS Part 4

 December 12, 2023

Okay, we know that PFAS is everywhere in our external environment and within 99% 

of us humans. So, what’s being done and how can we avoid it?
 
What’s Being Done? 
 
Federal action to stop the flow of PFAS and clean up PFAS contamination is moving 

too slowly. But progress has been made.

• The Biden administration in 2021 laid out a PFAS action plan.
• In early 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency unveiled proposed
national drinking water standards for six PFAS.
• California and other states have banned or regulated PFAS in personal care
products, children’s products, some textiles, carpets and rugs, and firefighting foam,
among other products.
• Under market pressure, some big retailers have eliminated or reduced PFAS in their products.
 
What Can You Do to Lower Your Risk? 
 
Think about taking these steps recommended by EWG:
• Filter Your Water:  Consider buying a countertop or undersink filter system that can eliminate

 nearly 100% of PFAS.
• Coming Clean: It’s hard to know what’s in your cleaners – companies aren’t required to disclose 

their ingredients. Try to find EWG VERIFIED Cleaners.
•  Good Grooming: Choose personal care products without PTFE or fluoro ingredients. Look for 

products with the EWG VERIFIED® mark, which are free from ingredients of concern.
• Cooking Utensils: Avoid using nonstick cookware and utensils. Teflon, which makes your 

cookware nonstick, is the granddaddy of all forever chemicals. 

Don’t use it. Choose stainless steel or cast iron instead.
• Takeout Containers: Cut back on fast food and greasy carry-out. Many containers are 

treated with PFAS, which then leach into our food. That includes microwave popcorn bags.
• Stain- and Water-Repellent Clothing: This is a tough one for us outdoor types! 

They’re usually made with PFAS. Look for products that say they’re PFAS-free, like furniture 

and carpets that haven’t been pre-treated.

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