What can we do to limit PFAS? A comic explains (part 3).

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In this final comic in a series about a group of chemicals known as “Forever Chemicals” or PFAS, we share ways that Public Health – Seattle & King County, King County residents, and organizations are mobilizing for legislation and regulations to protect our communities from PFAS. 

Mother holding toddler. Text: What can we do to limit PFAS?
A woman speaks at a podium. A screen behind her says, “Workshop on Children’s Health. Shirlee Tan, PhD, toxicologist.” Dr. Tan says: PFAS chemicals don’t break down and they’re nearly impossible to destroy. That’s why big institutions need to prevent the continued and unnecessary use of PFAS in the first place.
Household items: mascara, takeout containers, spray bottles. Text: In response to pressure from the public and public health groups, Washington state is banning PFAS in certain products. Products like these will no longer have PFAS: waterproof mascara, paper takeout containers, carpet and stain resistant sprays.
Mom reading a label on a bottle. She pushes a shopping cart with a preschooler sitting in it. Text: If you buy from local stores instead of online, what you buy is more likely to comply with PFAS bans.
A mom with a young child asks a food worker at a fast food restaurant: "Does your packaging have PFAS in it?" Worker: "No, we found takeout containers that are PFAS free." Text: People have contacted retailers, manufacturers, and elected officials to ask for PFAS-free products. Some businesses have chosen to stop using PFAS on their own.
A mom holding a young child stirs food in a cast iron pan . Text: They may be “forever chemicals”, but we don’t have to live with them forever.

Comic by the Lead and Toxics Program, Public Health – Seattle & King County. Artwork by Amy Camber.

For more information on PFAS: PFAS/forever chemicals – King County, Washington

More comics in this series:

What are PFAS and why are they harmful? A comic strip explains.
How can we reduce exposure to PFAS? A comic strip explains (part 2).

Originally posted on 11/26/24.