This September, Pollution Probe partnered with Urban Water TMU, Ontario Water Consortium and Actual Media, in support of Urban Water TMU’s workshop on PFAS management in Canada, an issue of increasing importance globally.
Often called “forever chemicals”, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of more than 10,000 compounds widely used in consumer products and industrial applications. PFAS can enter the waterways through landfills, wastewater, and industrial discharges. Once released, these substances can persist in the environment for centuries, contaminating soil, air, and water and posing risks to ecosystems and human health.
The PFAS Management in Canada workshop brought together experts and decision-makers from government, industry, academia, and the non-profit sector. Through presentations, panels, and roundtable discussions, participants explored the current state of PFAS management in Canada and highlighted opportunities to better prevent and address contamination. Key themes explored at the workshop included the need for improved monitoring and data sharing, greater public awareness and consumer education, and enhanced collaboration across sectors.