PFAS RISK LANDSCAPE 2026: STRATEGIC LIABILITY MANAGEMENT
R&C: How would you characterise the prevalence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)? What are their environmental impacts, and what key factors are shaping today’s PFAS risk landscape?
Sappington: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of over 15,000 synthetic chemical compounds, often nicknamed the forever chemicals, as they typically do not degrade easily and tend to accumulate in soils, waters and living organisms. PFAS are widely used in industrial and consumer products due to their resistance to heat, water and oil. Two driving forces are influencing this landscape, the first being regulatory. In the US, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate, two frequently detected compounds, as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), introducing new reporting requirements, among other things. Some states have banned PFAS in consumer products and set drinking water standards. The second factor to consider is the societal driver. Rising public awareness and concerns about related risks have increased consumer demand for PFAS-free products in textiles, cosmetics and food packaging, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable communities from contamination and cleanup costs.
Horstkamp: PFAS’ resistance to heat, water and oil make them critical in products like semiconductors, batteries and medical devices. However, certain PFAS can pose significant contamination risks due to their persistence and bioaccumulation. Developing safe and effective PFAS alternatives remains challenging, with replacements likely taking decades to create and implement. The US Department of Defense, managing contamination at 30 sites, has classified PFAS as critical to national security because they are integral to mission-critical equipment. For risk professionals, this evolving landscape demands careful management of various considerations, such as legacy liabilities, supply chain transparency and regulatory compliance. Strategic foresight is essential to navigate these complexities while balancing operational needs and environmental responsibilities.
Jan-Mar 2026 Issue
Marsh