Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contain fluorine and carbon atoms. Various PFAS are used in a wide range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to cell phones to electric vehicles.

Regulating all PFAS based on expansive ‘one-size-fits-all’ definitions can result in a confusing patchwork of state laws throughout the country. These regulatory complications would have far-reaching consequences for the manufacturing of many products critical to society.

One such category of products are fluorinated refrigerants, including HFCs and HFOs. These products are essential for ensuring food and cold chain safety and providing comfortable living environments. These products have a low global warming potential (GWP), do not persist in the environment, and do not bio-accumulate. They should not be regarded as PFAS.

For more information, read globalFACT’s latest opinion piece, The Case Against Rushing To Restrict PFAS, live now in Route Fifty.