Faster, cheaper and more humane method for evaluating new PFAS substances
A research group has developed a new method for assessing the risks posed by persistent organic pollutants.
- Written by
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Mari Susanne Solerød
- Key scientists
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You Song
A new study led by the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA) has developed a method that makes it possible to assess the risks posed by PFAS more effectively. By using modern testing tools, they also reduce the need for traditional animal testing.
The research, conducted in collaboration with Tsinghua University in China, addresses a current environmental challenge: how to assess the safety of new PFAS alternatives coming onto the market as older, well-known chemicals are phased out.
This is the challenge with PFAS substances
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of synthetic chemicals used in everything from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. Their exceptionally strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them highly resistant to degradation in the environment – hence their nickname ‘forever chemicals’.
‘The persistence of PFAS substances, the fact that they remain in the environment for a long time, combined with how easily they spread through water and ecosystems, and their possible toxicity, are causing us increasing concern,’ explains Dr. You Song, senior researcher at NIVA.
‘Older PFAS, such as PFOA, are now being phased out worldwide. However, many substitute PFAS substances are now coming onto the market instead, and we still know relatively little about their effects on the environment and health,’ he says.
These are New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)
New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) are modern tools designed to evaluate chemical hazards without relying on traditional animal-based toxicity testing. These new methods include computer modelling, cell-based assays, high-throughput screening technologies, and molecular techniques that can detect early biological responses.
Modern, animal-free approaches to chemical risk assessment
‘NAMs make it possible to use a larger amount of data to understand how chemicals affect living systems. The tool also makes it possible to assess substances much faster than with traditional animal testing,’ says Dr. Song. This approach reflects a change in Europe: through its chemicals strategy for sustainability, the EU has committed to gradually reducing and replacing the use of chemicals that are harmful to humans and the environment.
This approach reflects a change in Europe: through its Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, the EU has committed to gradually reducing and eventually replacing animal testing in laboratories. The EU is now developing a roadmap to accelerate this transition to end the use of animals in testing for environmental pollutants.
In this study, the research team used an integrated NAM approach to evaluate eight new PFOA alternatives. The tests showed us how toxic the substances are and at what levels they begin to be harmful or dangerous. These values were then compared with PFAS levels measured in wastewater and surface water.
‘NAMs make it possible to assess PFAS substances much more quickly than using traditional animal testing,’ says senior researcher You Song at NIVA.
What does this mean?
The study led by Song is a practical example of how new approaches can be used to evaluate the growing number of PFAS alternatives and other chemicals.
"Our work shows how the NAMs concept can bring together different types of data to create a clear picture of PFAS hazards based on new research. At the same time, we provide authorities with a basis for making informed decisions," says Dr. Song.
The new testing methods can help researchers and environmental authorities understand and manage PFAS. They help us set a course towards more sustainable and forward-looking testing and use of chemicals.
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