Expert and non-expert perceptions of ‘forever chemicals’:identifying commonalties and differences to inform PFASrisk communication

verfasst von

Elise Suffill, Svea Hörberg, Sara E. Hale, Sabine Pahl, Mathew P. White

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals’, are a large class of synthetic chemicals with consumer benefits, including waterproofing, stain prevention and non-stick properties. However, some PFAS have been identified as toxic to human health, being linked to cancer, lowered fertility, and developmental issues. Concern is high because PFAS can persist for long periods in the environment, accumulate in animals and humans, and are easily transported by water. Both scientific experts and the public (non-experts) are key actors who can support a reduction in PFAS pollution, but we lack data on public PFAS awareness and what actions they will support to reduce pollution. Combining quantitative and qualitative data in a mental models approach, we systematically compare expert and non-expert perceptions of PFAS and related issues, including the essentiality of consumer items that can contain PFAS. While we find knowledge gaps, such as a non-expert tendency to focus on direct chemical exposure routes during the use phase and to underestimate exposure through indirect routes, we also find commonalities: Both experts and non-experts understand the benefits chemicals provide alongside the risks and are aware of the greater risks posed by chemicals like PFAS to vulnerable groups. Moreover, experts and non-experts tend to view similar kinds of products and the functions they serve as most or least essential. Commonalities can provide routes to reducing PFAS use by highlighting cases where the majority agree a level of performance afforded by PFAS is not necessary. Finally, we provide suggestions for developing effective risk communications about PFAS with the public.

Organisationseinheit(en)

Institut für Umweltplanung
Umweltverhalten und Planung

Externe Organisation(en)

Universität Wien
DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser (TZW)

Typ

Artikel

Journal

Journal of Risk Research

Band

28

Seiten

589-610

Anzahl der Seiten

22

ISSN

1366-9877

Publikationsdatum

26.06.2025

Publikationsstatus

Veröffentlicht

Peer-reviewed

Ja

ASJC Scopus Sachgebiete

Sicherheit, Risiko, Zuverlässigkeit und Qualität, Allgemeiner Maschinenbau, Allgemeine Sozialwissenschaften, Strategie und Management

Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung

SDG 3 – Gute Gesundheit und Wohlergehen

Elektronische Version(en)

https://doi.org/10.1080/13669877.2025.2522658 (Zugang: Geschlossen)