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Gear that supports environmental health

While I love being outside, much of the outdoor equipment that is manufactured- from rain jackets, to tents, to sports bras - contain synthetic chemicals harmful to both human and ecological health. Companies that produce these chemicals have largely been allowed to generate immense profits at the expense of the health of people and the environment. I want to raise awareness about this, share info on safer gear, and advocate for producer responsibility and accountability. 

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What are the harmful chemicals?

PFAS (Per and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances) are a class of almost 15,000 synthetic chemicals.

Where do PFAS come from? All PFAS are synthetic AKA human made - they do not exist naturally in the environment. These chemicals were first made and introduced into consumer products in the 1940s. 

Why are they used? PFAS have chemical properties that make them resistant to grease, oil, water, soil, and they are stable at very high temperatures. 

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What are the health harms?

Effects-of-per-and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-on-human-health-Used-with-permission-from.pn

Image source: Suzanne E. Fenton, Alan Ducatman, Alan Boobis, Jamie C. DeWitt, Christopher Lau, Carla Ng, James S. Smith, Stephen M. Roberts, Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Toxicity and Human Health Review: Current State of Knowledge and Strategies for Informing Future Research, Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Volume 40, Issue 3, 1 March 2021, https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.4890

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How do I dispose of old gear?

© 2024 by annamulhern.  all photos and videos are my own

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