“GenX” refers to a group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS are a class of human-made chemicals used in a wide range of products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. As a result, GenX garnered attention as an alternative to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is another PFAS compound that was phased out due to health and environmental concerns.
GenX chemicals have been used in the manufacturing of various products, including non-stick coatings, water-repellent outdoor gear, food packaging, and firefighting foams. These chemicals are called “forever chemicals” because they are highly persistent in the environment and do not break down easily.
Concerns about GenX and other PFAS arise from their potential adverse effects on human health. Some studies have linked exposure to PFAS to health issues such as cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental problems. Additionally, PFAS contamination has been detected in drinking water sources, leading to regulatory actions and efforts to address contamination.
Regulatory agencies and environmental organizations are actively researching and monitoring the presence of GenX and other PFAS in various environmental compartments. This is to better understand their impact and develop strategies to mitigate exposure and contamination.
In November 2023 the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled against chemicals company Chemours Netherlands in its appeal against the identification of ‘GenX’ chemicals as a ‘substance of very high concern’ by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
As of January 2022, the regulations vary by country and region, so it’s important to note that regulations may have evolved since then.
Here are some general points related to PFAS regulations:
1) United States:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken steps to address PFAS contamination. As of 2022, there was no federal drinking water standard for PFAS. However, the EPA has established a health advisory level for PFOA and PFOS, two common PFAS compounds.
Various states in the U.S. have implemented their own regulations regarding PFAS in drinking water and the environment.
2) European Union:
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated PFAS substances, including restrictions on their use in certain products.
The European Union has implemented regulations like Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) that impact PFAS use in various applications.
3) Canada:
Health Canada has been actively researching and monitoring PFAS. There are regulations in place to manage the presence of these substances in the environment and in consumer products.
Companies can rely on Compliance XL to provide them with PFAS compliance consulting services and PFAS declaration and Genx regulation collection services. We also help our customers to maintain their suppliers’ certificates and declarations on a regular basis to make sure they are up to date as part of their compliance data management strategy.
FAQ:
1.What is “GenX”?
“GenX” refers to a group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.”
