PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often called "forever chemicals" and for good reason. These toxic compounds, which are found in everyday items like mascara, nonstick pans, and even fast-food wrappers, do not break down naturally. They stay in our environment and in our bodies for years causing serious health problems such as cancer, hormone disruption, liver damage, and weakened immune responses.
One of the most effective places for young adults to start is right in their schools. They can contribute by organizing PFAS awareness weeks, creating posters and putting it on the doors, lockers and hallways, or even hosting student-led assemblies that can inform peers, teachers, and administrators about the dangers of PFAS. Schools also use items like nonstick cookware in cafeterias, which can contain these harmful chemicals which is why it is important for students to push their schools to switch to safer alternatives.
A great initiative was seen by students in Baltimore who recently teamed up with community members and researchers at UMBC to test local waters for PFAS contamination. This partnership not only raises awareness but also builds real data to back up calls for cleaner water and safer infrastructure. Young activists are already shaping environmental policies across the U.S. and PFAS is no exception.
Policy can allow investigation to happen, real action to be taken as seen in Kentucky when a recent subpoena issued to a 3M plant by regulators investigating PFAS pollution.