The list of signatories is periodically updated. Currently, nearly 300 scientists & practitioners from over 40 countries have signed on.
A recent “Scientists’ statement on the chemical definition of PFASs” published by Environmental Science & Technology Letters is a response to proposals to redefine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFASs”) and to exclude certain fluorinated chemical subgroups from the scope of the chemical definition adopted in 2021 by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and subsequently by many others. The authors are concerned that recent efforts to redefine what constitutes PFASs are politically rather than scientifically motivated. A possible endorsement of a narrower definition by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), a recognized global scientific organization, could confer undue legitimacy and thereby influence others to adopt such a narrower definition and on this basis less protective policies. The intent of the statement and the accompanying sign-on campaign is to convey the importance of maintaining the OECD chemical definition. There is no evidence to indicate that the OECD definition is flawed or problematic, and hence, there is no need for a new PFAS definition. As acknowledged by the OECD and already put in practice by a number of jurisdictions, justified exemptions can be made for specific purposes without changing the chemical definition of what constitutes a PFAS.
By signing on and submitting my information below, I confirm my support for the scientists’ statement on the chemical definition of PFASs and agree to have my name and affiliation publicly listed as a signatory of the statement. My signature represents my individual views and not necessarily the views or official policies of the institution with which I am affiliated.
If you are unable to fill out this form please send an email to admin(-at-)ipcp(-dot-)ch and include your name, academic title, position, affiliation, city, and country.