Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) encompass thousands of distinct chemical compounds and are prevalent in a diverse array of consumer products and industrial applications, including firefighting foam and non-stick cookware. PFAS are deemed environmentally detrimental due to their resistance to breakdown in the environment, owing to the exceptionally robust carbon compound bonds they possess. They can permeate soils and contaminate local water sources, posing significant risks to ecosystems and human health.

Furthermore, PFAS exposure has been associated with an increased likelihood of developing asthma and thyroid disease, as well as an elevated risk of certain cancers such as prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.

Recent studies have revealed alarming statistics, indicating that PFAS can be detected in the bloodstreams of nearly 97% of Americans. Moreover, a staggering 18-80 million Americans are supplied with tap water containing concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) or perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) at 10 ng/L or higher, as of 2023. The sources of PFAS contamination are diverse, ranging from landfills to military sites.

However, despite the growing awareness of PFAS contamination, conducting comprehensive investigations still requires substantial manpower and financial resources. Addressing this complex issue demands concerted efforts from governments, industries, and communities to mitigate the adverse impacts of PFAS on both the environment and public health.