Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) is an abbreviation for two related sets of chemicals, perfluorinated chemicals and perfluorocarbons. They include hundreds of substances which are great at repelling water, dirt and oil, making them ideal for durable water-repellent finishes (DWR) on outdoor clothing.

Why are they a problem?

They might be great at waterproofing, but PFCs have some pretty nasty side-effects and by-products. Released into the air, and potentially leaked into water systems during manufacturing, they can be harmful to humans, animals and the environment. PFCs are not natural and they breakdown very slowly making it easy for their concentration to build up over time in our bodies, in rivers, the soil, and the snow. Traces have been found in secluded mountain lakes and even in remote parts of the Arctic. Learn more here: Outdoor Detox

What’s being done?

Due to pressure from EU chemicals regulation (REACH) and other laws and studies, as well as a more informed public demanding greater sustainability, the impetus for greener alternatives is increasing.

The worst offending PFCs, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), also known as C8 PFCs, are being phased out and companies are now switching to a C6 PFCs. These C6 PFCs may be slightly less damaging as, with 2 less carbon atoms, they break down quicker, but they are still far from ideal.

What are the alternatives to PFCs?

Eliminating PFCs is hard and many companies have struggled for years to find alternative substances which give the same performance.

Making the switch is a marathon, not a sprint, especially for the larger companies. However, solutions are being found and all of our brands have either found a suitable alternative or are working hard towards replacing the PFC’s in their DWR.

By Al Atkinson