Knowledgebase Page - Why is PFC free important?
May 23, 2022
What are PFCs?
PFCs (per- and poly-fluorinated chemicals) are entirely man-made substances that do not occur naturally. They are commonly used in durable water repellent (DWR) coatings and waterproof membranes. For some time, these fluorochemicals have been employed to give clothing water and stain-resistant properties. However, as awareness of the harmful effects of PFCs on the environment has grown, particularly within the outdoor activities sector, there has been increased scrutiny regarding their use.
The clothing sector is a significant source of PFCs, with over half of the most hazardous PFC chemicals being used in weatherproof apparel. Given that outdoor enthusiasts often have a greater understanding of the environment, it is crucial for them to be informed about these issues and to take action. With the rising wave of sustainability and environmentally friendly practices gaining momentum, it is an ideal time for companies to fully commit to developing alternatives.
Research has increased awareness of the effects of PFCs. Once released into the environment, these chemicals break down very slowly and can persist for many years, spreading globally. They pose risks to both the wearer and the environment, as they can wash off or rub off jackets, accumulating in measurable levels in snow, ice, and water worldwide. Certain PFCs have been linked to reproductive harm, tumour growth, and disruption of the hormone system.
For more information on the extensive impacts of PFCs, Greenpeace conducted thorough research, and their publication "Footprints in the Snow" highlights this global issue. As a result of such research, there is growing pressure on outdoor brands to lead the way in eliminating PFCs; however, finding a high-performance, waterproof alternative has proven to be a challenge.
What is being done about the PFC problem?
After many of the negative effects of PFCs (perfluorinated compounds) were identified and researched, many brands began taking steps to eliminate some or all PFCs from their apparel. This process is challenging because many outdoor brands rely on their top waterproof clothing to perform in extreme conditions, where people's lives can literally depend on it. It is a difficult balancing act to replicate the performance of PFCs with sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives.
While other areas of outdoor clothing, such as ethical down, organic cotton, and recycled materials, have been well-documented and addressed effectively by many brands, PFCs remain a significant issue. Some brands have been accused of "greenwashing", which means they attempt to present a positive image while still using PFC-based chemicals; this practice clearly needs to change.
In a competitive marketplace, most companies strive to develop their own unique ideas and technologies to stand out, which is fine but often leads to a lack of coordinated efforts toward common goals. However, one collaborative initiative that has emerged is the bluesign system. In recent years, many brands have joined this system, which aims to create sustainable textile production by focusing on five key principles related to environmental protection and human health. The bluesign system encompasses brands, textile manufacturers, and chemical suppliers, ensuring that products, factories, production methods, and individual components can be accounted for.
PFCs (per- and poly-fluorinated chemicals) are all completely man-made chemicals which do not occur naturally. They are commonly used in DWR (durable water repellent) coatings and waterproof membranes. These fluorochemicals have been used for some time to give clothing water and stain resistant properties. Until fairly recently there were very few alternatives so as it became obvious that PFCs were harmful to the environment more focus fell upon the use of PFCs, especially within the outdoor activities sector.