PFAS

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are human-made chemicals found in a wide range of products used by consumers.

What are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS is a term that describes a family of thousands of human-made chemical compounds found in numerous products used in everyday life. PFAS are used in products because they provide heat, water, and oil resistant properties.

Why are PFAS a Concern?

Widespread use of PFAS in the production of common everyday products has resulted in human and animal exposure. PFAS are found in water, air, and soil. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites research that suggests high levels of certain PFAS may have negative health impacts. PFAS have been classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a class of “emerging contaminants.”

What is Being Done About PFAS?

The EPA leads the national effort to understand PFAS and reduce risks to the public. The EPA is working on a nationwide drinking water monitoring process for PFAS. Learn about the EPA’s actions.

While PFAS have been detected in wastewater treatment systems, the facilities are not a source of PFAS. Clackamas Water Environment Services voluntarily screened for PFAS at our two largest facilities. The testing did detect PFAS, and the results were similar to those found at other wastewater treatment facilities.

Working Together

Dedicated to protecting public health and the environment, Clackamas Water Environment Services is aligned with our partner agencies and national water quality experts to follow developments in PFAS research. To learn the latest about PFAS in Oregon, Clackamas Water Environment Services works with the Oregon Association of Clean Water Agencies (ACWA), which engages with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) on sharing the latest information about PFAS. Learn how the DEQ is addressing PFAS in Oregon.

How You Can Help 

You can help us reduce PFAS chemicals from entering the water cycle. Many manufacturers are now offering PFAS-free products and alternatives. As a consumer, you can use the power of choice to do your part. 

PFAS Central, an initiative from the Green Science Policy Institute, provides an extensive list of PFAS-free products, including cosmetics, household cleaners, cookware, outdoor apparel, and more.