From PFAS to Microplastics: The Rising Challenge of Emerging Contaminants

Episode 2 of Rethinking EHS, Season 3 focuses on the rapid rise of emerging contaminants and their impact on environmental and human health.

Advances in scientific research are revealing hidden risks from widely used chemicals, bringing emerging contaminants like 6PPD into focus as they transform into harmful byproducts, while growing public awareness, especially around PFAS “forever chemicals”, is accelerating regulatory and scientific action, with microplastics quickly gaining similar attention. 

At the same time, organisations face challenges navigating fragmented and evolving regulations, particularly in the US, making risk management complex. 

Ultimately, the episode underscores the need for organisations to proactively understand and manage their risks now, while individuals can contribute by reducing their everyday environmental impact.

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Guest quotes:

Ivy Ng:
“Advances in science are revealing previously unknown threats to the environment and human health.” 

Jack Sheldon:
“There’s a lot to build on. We have a baseline of information, but still many unknowns when dealing with emerging contaminants.”

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Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Introduction & overview of emerging contaminants 

00:01:27 – What are emerging contaminants? 

00:04:05 – Deep dive into 6PPD and its environmental impact 

00:08:34 – PFAS vs microplastics: public awareness and regulation 

00:12:10 – Human health risks and uncertainties 

00:13:24 – How organisations are responding to PFAS 

00:18:17 – Solutions: stormwater management and treatment systems 

00:21:34 – Future outlook for PFAS and emerging contaminants 

00:23:48 – Safer alternatives and regulatory developments 

00:28:37 – Key actions for organisations and individuals 

00:31:23 – Closing reflections 

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Sponsor 

Rethinking EHS is brought to you by the Inogen Alliance. Inogen Alliance is a global network of 70+ companies providing environment, health, safety, and sustainability services, working together to provide one point of contact to guide multinational organizations to meet their global commitments locally. Visit https://www.inogenalliance.com to learn more. 

Produced by Madcontent.co.nz

Links 

https://www.Inogenalliance.com/resources

https://www.Inogenalliance.com/podcast

Beatrice on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrice-bizzaro/

Ivy on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivy-liu-p-geo-qpra-4a797520/

Jack on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-sheldon-680a941a/