The United States regulates PFAS, subject of the film with Mark Ruffalo

The United States controls PFAS, a source of inspiration for the film with Mark Ruffalo

Perfluroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl aka PFAS attracted public attention on a larger scale after the film "The Price of Truth" with Mark Ruffalo. This film highlighted the dangers of PFAS. As a result, the United States has begun to put in place measures to control these substances.

What are PFAS?

THE PFAS are synthetic chemical substances used in many everyday consumer products for their water-repellent and anti-grease properties. They are notably present in certain food packaging, non-stick pans, waterproof clothing and even anti-stain products for carpets. However, these substances are persistent, meaning that they do not break down naturally in the environment, and are also bioaccumulative, therefore accumulating in living organisms, including humans, with adverse health consequences.

The film "The Price of Truth" with Mark Ruffalo

The film "The Price of Truth", with Mark Ruffalo in the lead role, is an adaptation of lawyer Robert Bilott's fight against the chemical company DuPont for having covered up the toxicity of PFAS for decades. This film helped raise public awareness of the dangers of PFAS.

The supervision of PFAS in the United States

Faced with the health and environmental impact of PFAS, THE UNITED STATES have started to put in place measures to control these substances. In 2019, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) presented an action plan to manage PFAS and protect affected communities. This plan notably provides for the establishment of a maximum potability standard for two types of PFAS, the prohibition of new uses of PFAS without prior authorization from the EPA, and the strengthening of scientific research on these substances.

The continuation of the supervisory measures

Beyond the EPA, other federal and state agencies have also taken steps to regulate PFAS. Efforts continue in 2021 with proposed new laws and regulations to eliminate the use of PFAS in consumer products, improve tracking and surveillance of these substances, and accelerate research into their impacts on health and safety. environment.