PFAS regulation gaps are becoming a serious concern across the globe. PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are not the only unregulated pollutants harming our health and environment. Air pollution from non-exhaust sources like tires and brake dust, as well as microplastics in groundwater, are also widely overlooked in public policy. These threats are growing, yet laws and regulations remain far behind.
This article explores how PFAS, non-exhaust air pollution, and microplastics are entering our lives and why they remain so poorly regulated. We’ll also discuss what can be done to fix these regulation gaps before the damage becomes irreversible.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They Called Forever Chemicals?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of thousands of man-made chemicals used in many everyday products. They are found in non-stick pans, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, fast food packaging, and more. The nickname “forever chemicals” comes from their resistance to breaking down in nature. Once released into the environment, PFAS can stay in soil, water, and living organisms for decades.
Scientists have linked PFAS exposure to a range of health issues, including cancer, hormone disruption, liver problems, immune system damage, and developmental delays in children. These chemicals are also spreading fast, with traces found in drinking water, rivers, food, and even rainwater in remote areas.
Non-Exhaust Air Pollution: An Invisible but Widespread Problem
Most air pollution regulations focus on exhaust from cars, factories, and power plants. But a large portion of modern air pollution comes from non-exhaust sources such as:
- Tire wear: as tires rub against roads, they release small rubber particles into the air
- Brake dust: tiny metal and chemical particles are released during braking
- Road surface erosion: roads degrade over time, adding to air pollution
- Dust from traffic: cars and trucks kick up dirt and debris as they drive
These particles are tiny—many are smaller than 10 microns—and can be inhaled deep into the lungs. Some carry toxic metals and chemicals. Long-term exposure is linked to asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory issues. Yet these sources are largely unregulated.
Microplastics in Groundwater
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than five millimeters. They come from the breakdown of larger plastics, fibers from synthetic clothes, and industrial waste. Microplastics are already being found in oceans, rivers, soils, and even the air. Groundwater—one of the world’s key sources of drinking water—is now also contaminated.
Microplastics can pass through many standard water filters, making them hard to remove. They may carry harmful bacteria, heavy metals, or other toxic chemicals, raising health concerns. However, scientists still do not fully understand how dangerous they are to humans, and most laws don’t set any limits on their presence in water.
How Regulation Falls Short
Despite clear scientific evidence of risk, regulation of PFAS, non-exhaust pollution, and microplastics is limited or entirely missing in many countries. Here’s where things currently stand:
PFAS
Some countries have banned a few specific PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA and PFOS. Others have set drinking water limits, mostly for known PFAS compounds. But thousands of other PFAS chemicals are still untested and unregulated. There are no global standards, and wastewater discharge from industries remains loosely monitored.
Non-Exhaust Air Pollution
Air quality regulations in most places only cover exhaust from engines and factories. The particles from tires, brakes, and roads are not yet part of any formal pollution limits. Research is ongoing, but policymakers have been slow to act.
Microplastics in Water
While some organizations are studying microplastics in drinking water, few enforceable regulations exist. Groundwater and well water are rarely tested. Wastewater treatment systems are often not equipped to remove microplastics, and little is being done to fix this.
Why Are These Regulation Gaps Still Here?
Several reasons help explain the current gaps in regulation:
- Complexity: PFAS includes thousands of different chemicals. Microplastics and air particles vary in size, material, and source. Regulating such a broad range of substances is challenging.
- Lack of data: Scientists are still studying long-term impacts. Without full understanding of the health effects, regulators are hesitant to act.
- Monitoring difficulties: It’s hard to detect microplastics in water or ultra-fine air particles. Many regions lack the labs or funding needed for proper testing.
- Industry pushback: Regulation could mean high costs for companies that would need to change manufacturing processes or materials.
- Low public pressure: Many people don’t know these pollutants exist or how they affect them. Because the harm is often invisible, the issue doesn’t get enough attention.
What Could Better Regulation Look Like?
Closing the PFAS regulation gaps will take coordinated efforts from governments, scientists, and citizens. Here are some practical steps that can be taken:
Regulate Chemical Groups, Not Just Individual Substances
Instead of banning one PFAS at a time, regulations should cover all chemicals in the PFAS family unless proven safe. This would prevent manufacturers from simply switching to unregulated but equally harmful alternatives.
Set Air Pollution Limits for Non-Exhaust Sources
Governments should include tire and brake emissions in their air quality rules. Vehicle makers should be pushed to develop cleaner, low-emission tires and braking systems.
Create Water Standards for Microplastics
Drinking water, groundwater, and wastewater should be tested for microplastics regularly. Regulatory bodies should set limits and require treatment plants to upgrade their systems.
Fund Scientific Research and Monitoring
More studies are needed to understand health risks. Government funding can help develop better detection tools and support data collection on exposure levels and impacts.
Raise Public Awareness
When people understand the dangers of PFAS and microplastics, they are more likely to demand action. Educational campaigns and product labeling can make a big difference.
What You Can Do as an Individual
While government action is essential, individuals can also make an impact:
- Choose PFAS-free products, such as cookware and clothing
- Support companies that use environmentally friendly materials
- Reduce plastic use and recycle properly
- Avoid excessive driving and support clean transport solutions
- Stay informed and support organizations fighting for environmental regulation
Conclusion
PFAS regulation gaps, along with weak control of non-exhaust air pollution and microplastics, put both our health and our environment at risk. These pollutants are often invisible and overlooked, but their effects are real and growing.
Without stronger laws and better public understanding, these harmful substances will continue to spread. Governments need to act, industries need to innovate, and individuals need to stay informed and involved. Only then can we hope to reduce exposure, protect natural resources, and secure a safer future.
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