Frequently Asked Questions

What are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are forever chemicals that do not break down naturally. They are a growing class of 15,000 synthetic chemicals that are widely used f in product manufacturing and industrial processes to achieve certain qualities like stain-resistance, waterproofing, and non-stick. These toxic chemicals are found virtually everywhere—in air, soil, water, food, plants, wildlife, and humans. CDC estimates approximately 98% of Americans have detectable levels of PFAS in their blood.

PFAS have been linked to a variety of serious health effects, including kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, and a decreased response to vaccines. PFAS compounds pose serious concerns for mothers and babies, as these chemicals are known to cross the placenta during pregnancy and are present in breast milk, posing risks to fetuses and newborn babies. High levels of PFAS in a mother’s blood have been linked to preeclampsia in pregnancy and decreases in birth weight.
For many people, the primary exposure to PFAS is through drinking water, and it is estimated that at least 45% of the nation’s drinking water supplies are contaminated with PFAS. A concerning number of public water systems in New York State have reported the presence of PFOA or PFOS, two types of PFAS chemicals since monitoring began in the state in 2020.
Many communities across New York, such as Hoosick Falls, Newburgh, Buffalo, Petersburg, Rockland County, and many parts of Long Island, are dealing with PFAS water contamination crises from the use of fire-fighting foam at airports and fire stations, from industrial facility discharges, and leaching landfills.

PFAS Exchange – maps of known and potentially contaminated sites

See what’s in your water – check the Department of Health Drinking Water Contaminants database

PFAS enters our environment when products with PFAS are produced, used, and disposed of. For example, PFAS are released to the environment from industrial discharges into surface or wastewater systems; industrial air emissions that deposit PFAS into water and soils, from the use of products in our homes like nonstick cookware or cleaning and personal care products that wash down the drains to incineration of PFAS laden products; to contaminated landfill leachate that is discharged to storm sewers or seeps into surface and groundwaters; and spreading of contaminated sewage sludge on agricultural lands.

The primary exposure to PFAS is through contaminated water and food. However, people are at risk of being exposed to PFAS chemicals daily in their homes through the inhalation of household dust and fumes and dermal contact with stain-resistant carpets, upholstery and textiles, cleaning products, cosmetic and personal care products, such as dental floss, waterproof mascara, and moisturizers,
There are also ingestion exposure risks from non-stick cookware and other cooking instruments that can further contaminate food when non-stick cookware is scratched or overheated.

All of these pathways into the environment require more focused regulation. Ultimately, upstream regulation of industry is crucial to protect public health, the environment, and to prevent further contamination of our drinking water.
The chemical companies (like DuPont and 3M) that invented this class of toxic chemicals have made billions of dollars manufacturing these chemicals while intentionally covering up evidence of their harmful human health and environmental impacts.