Finding and managing “forever chemicals” in your supply chains

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of chemicals in use since the 1950s, to make a wide variety of stain-resistant, water-resistant and non-stick consumer products. They are in waterproof cosmetics, raincoats, Teflon pans, water-resistant hiking boots and fire-fighting foams to name a few products. They are in the products in your supply chain.

More than 12,000 of these PFAS are in industrial products such as coatings, lubricants, insulation and a host of other processes that are common in manufacturing. Due to their tight chemical bonds, these substances have difficulty breaking down over time, which has resulted in their nickname “forever chemicals.”

They resist degradation in the environment and accumulate in your body. Studies have shown potential adverse human health effects from exposure to some PFAS. If you have seen the movie Dark Waters, you’ll recognize one of the PFAS in this true story about chemical deaths attributed to the production of Teflon.

PFAS are a public health concern, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Research indicates that these chemicals can be dangerous. Exposure to PFAS is linked to cancers, weakened immune systems among children, reproductive health, weight gain and a wide range of other health problems.

New regulations

New regulations have been proposed that would ban the use and importation of nearly 10,00 PFAS chemicals in the European Union. Even stricter regulations are being considered in the U.S. These regulations are driving chemical companies to stop producing many of these products.

Sourcing these chemicals or products made with PFAS is going to become more difficult and the restrictions on shipping them more complex. California has some of the most restrictive regulations. Beginning January 1, 2023, the State of California will prohibit the distribution and sale of food packaging containing regulated PFAS. This includes food and beverage containers, take-out food containers, wrappers, utensils, straws, disposable tableware and more. This is only the beginning of more regulations.

In my recent Frictionless Supply Chain podcast with Cally Edgren at Assent software, she described what could happen if these chemicals are widely banned, when suddenly you cannot get lubricants, coatings, or other products needed for manufacturing. They could also be available, but cannot be shipped. Chemical companies may cease production on many PFAS affecting all kinds of products used in industrial settings and households.

Time to raise the red flag

It’s time for supply chain folks to raise the red flag about these coming regulations. Assemble a team of product management, manufacturing and procurement people to discuss what plans are needed to substitute products you use and products you make with alternative chemicals and materials. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

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