Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): an emerging contaminant

Abstract

PFAS compounds are ubiquitous in the environment and in consumer products. Unlike other emergent contaminants this is a family of compounds with, literally, thousands of compounds. Our knowledge of toxicological and environmental fate and transport properties is an evolving field. On the other hand, regulatory limits (when they exist) are extremely low and address only a limited handful of compounds. Regulatory standards are limited to drinking water or groundwater, but investigators are required, and need to address the entire pathway from source to receptor. In addition, because of their physical-chemical properties there are unconventional migration pathways, such as sewer exfiltration and biosolids residuals, that complicate site assessment and site closure. Surveys to date in Greece are fragmented and very limited in scope and focus. The objective of this study is to discuss how professional judgement should be used to collect appropriate data to both define the nature and extent of impact and to assess whether receptors may be adversely impacted and how to select an appropriate remedy, if mitigation of those impacts is warranted. These evaluations are grounded upon an understanding of the physical and chemical PFAS properties, their fate and transport in environmental media, potential health effects and approaches and limitations to setting remediation goals. The concepts of a systematic approach to characterize the occurrence of PFAS in Greece and of a national characterization program, built on the experience of European Union and other countries, which takes into account key aspects of use and disposal, will also be presented.