Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (also known as PFAS) are everywhere these days, literally and figuratively. They show up in regulatory actions, the popular media, and just about everywhere researchers look, from rainwater in Antarctica to our own bodies. And because PFAS have such unique properties, they are used in many products and applications that we interact with daily. The main problem is their persistence in the environment and the uncertainty about long-term consequences that can come with that.

The PFAS issue presents many challenges for businesses that product stewards are well positioned to address.

• Regulatory analysis and advocacy: A growing number of regulations restrict PFAS in many consumer applications, and some authorities are proposing broad bans in the longer term. Labeling and reporting requirements are also becoming more common. Product stewards understand how to assess the impacts to businesses, advocate when needed, and help businesses build compliance plans.

• Knowledge of product contents: Regulators and customers are both requesting more information about PFAS in products. This is particularly challenging for complex articles, like electronics. Product stewards maintain relationships with their supply chain partners to track the content of products for compliance, which they can then present in the ways that regulators and customers need.

• Hazard versus risk communication: PFAS have become “outrage substances,” making it difficult to have meaningful conversations on hazards compared to risks and how they vary across the many types of PFAS and their uses. Product stewards understand the science and have the communication skills to help businesses navigate these discussions with stakeholders and customers.

• Business risk management: Increasing customer and retailer pushback can lead to downward pressure on the sale of PFAS-containing products, even ahead of regulatory action—a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “marketplace deselection.” There can also be heightened scrutiny and litigation risk for companies associated with PFAS use. And suppliers may stop sales of PFAS-containing raw materials and parts ahead regulation, leading to assurance of supply problems. Product stewards can help business identify these types of risks and develop mitigation plans.

• Alternatives assessment: Product stewards can advocate for critical applications while collaborating with research and development and procurement to find safer alternatives. They can also help avoid regrettable substitutions by ensuring comprehensive hazard assessments are used to confirm that replacements are truly safer and more sustainable.

Product stewardship sits at the intersection of science, regulation, and business strategy. Our companies need us now more than ever to navigate the many challenges that PFAS present. We have the opportunity to turn this “perfect storm” into a defining moment for product stewards’ business leadership.

The Product Stewardship Society keeps you up to date with all the latest PFAS-related developments, supports you with resources to share with your business, and provides you with access to a network of other product stewards dealing with the same issues.