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“Forever chemicals”: a sticky environmental problem |
Junhua Fang1, Shaolin Li1( ), Rongliang Qiu2,3, Wei-xian Zhang1,2( ) |
1. College of Environmental Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China 2. Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China 3. College of Natural Resources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China |
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Abstract ● “Forever chemicals” are being redefined in terms of environmental lifespans. ● Novel degradation technologies offer promising PFAS remediation solutions. ● Global Collaboration in responding to the PFAS crisis is emphasized. The discovery and widespread use of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have exemplified the beneficial role of chemistry in modern life, yet they have also underscored significant environmental and health concerns. Termed “forever chemicals” due to their remarkable persistence, PFAS present formidable challenges in terms of contamination and toxicity. Efforts to address these challenges have led to the development of innovative degradation technologies, such as hydrothermal alkali treatment (HALT), low-temperature mineralization, and mechanochemical degradation, offering promising solutions to PFAS remediation. However, these advancements must be accompanied by robust investment in research, collaboration among stakeholders, and global responsibility to ensure effective management of PFAS contamination and mitigate its adverse impacts on ecosystems and human health.
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| Keywords
PFAS
Degradation technologies
Environmental remediation
Global responsibility
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Corresponding Author(s):
Shaolin Li,Wei-xian Zhang
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Issue Date: 16 July 2024
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