PFAS Addressing PFAS. Forever chemicals are taking an irretrievable toll on health everywhere. What options exist? September 2025 — PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have emerged as one of the most pressing environmental and public health challenges of the 21st century. Their extreme persistence in the environment and links to severe health risks have placed them at the center of By Brett Johnson • 2 min read