The Senate has launched an inquiry into “forever chemicals” over concerns about their impacts on people’s health and the broader environment.
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS, or “forever chemicals”) are used in common household products.
They have been found in drinking water and are linked to serious diseases.
Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe will lead the inquiry. Thorpe called PFAS “the asbestos of the 21st century”.
Forever chemicals
PFAS have been used in household products since the 1950s. For example, in non-stick pans, cookware, water-repellent clothing, firefighting foams, and products to resist grease.
The chemicals don’t break down easily in nature. If humans are exposed to them, they can exist in the body permanently.
As such, they’re commonly described as “forever chemicals”.
Exposure
U.S. health authorities say PFAS has leaked into soil, water, and air over time. One study has shown PFAS is present in the blood of 97% of Americans.
Scientists have linked PFAS exposure to liver damage, kidney disease, type II diabetes, and some cancers.
The extent of PFAS’ toxicity is still unknown.
Australia
Last year, First Nations group the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community Council reached a $22 million settlement with the Federal Government after PFAS was discovered in lands and waters around Jervis Bay, NSW.
Following an investigation by Nine newspapers, Sydney’s water utility service confirmed earlier this week that waterways contained PFAS.
Inquiry
Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe called for the Senate inquiry and will lead it.
The inquiry into forever chemicals will look into:
- Sources of PFAS exposure through food, consumer goods, and water
- Health and environmental impacts
- Role of government agencies in monitoring and limiting PFAS exposure
- Impact on First Nations communities
Thorpe compared PFAS to asbestos, a mineral fibre once used in housing insulation that causes serious illness on exposure.
“This committee has the opportunity to drive change that will protect and improve the health of every single person,” Thorpe said.
The inquiry’s report is due by August next year.
