Part of @DerbyCommunityHub!Events: Themes: Threads of Knowledge! We support research & development of new materials and production of clothing.
Forever Chemicals need to be understood better, from interaction with these fibres to the chemicals that run off the ground to make them. Continue reading this post to learn what you can do about it today...
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You can read more via https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz9vz249keno
Or you can watch the BBC Documentary via https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/l0057xw0/how-forever-chemicals-affect-your-health
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Story continues...
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As part of our ongoing coverage at @ImFashion via TXTWRK.com, we're diving deeper into this critical and evolving theme in fashion and textiles. The original BBC article (linked above) highlighted how PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as "forever chemicals"—are commonly used in items like school uniforms for their water- and stain-resistant properties. These persistent compounds don't break down, accumulating in bodies, water, soil, and wildlife, with established links to serious health concerns including certain cancers, thyroid issues, and more.
Fast-forward to today (February 3, 2026): The UK Government has just unveiled its first-ever national PFAS Plan—a coordinated framework to better understand sources, spread, and exposure risks while pushing for reduced use and safer alternatives. Key actions include ramped-up environmental testing (e.g., more monitoring of water, soils, and coastal areas), a forthcoming consultation on statutory limits for PFAS in England's public drinking water, and steps to align more closely with EU regulations by December 2028, which aim to restrict non-essential uses. While not a full ban yet, it signals progress toward protecting public health and the environment—though critics argue it's "crushingly disappointing" compared to bolder moves in places like France (banning PFAS in clothing/cosmetics from 2026) and Denmark.
Our take? This is a pivotal moment for the fashion industry to accelerate change. PFAS provide functional perks, but the long-term costs to human health (via skin contact and bioaccumulation) and the planet (via persistent pollution) are unacceptable. We want—and believe in—a future of better production, radical transparency, consumer empowerment, and practical care guidance so people can make informed choices about what touches their skin.
Better production & innovation: The phase-out is driving real advancements. Shift to proven PFAS-free alternatives like:
Brands and suppliers are investing heavily—many outdoor and technical apparel companies have already transitioned, proving performance doesn't have to suffer. Supply chains are cleaning up, and costs are dropping as adoption grows. We call on more manufacturers to commit fully—no more "essential use" excuses where viable swaps exist.
Raising awareness & smarter shopping: Scrutinize labels and marketing. Red flags include claims like "waterproof," "stain-repellent," "dirt-proof," or ingredients with "fluoro," "perfluoro," or "PFC." Seek out "PFAS-free," "PFC-free," or certifications like Bluesign-approved. Prioritize natural/organic fibers (e.g., organic cotton, wool, linen, TENCEL™) that often skip these treatments. Look for brands phasing out PFAS: Patagonia, Arc'teryx, The North Face, Adidas, Outerknown, Pact, Boody, and others lead here—many now offer fully PFAS-free lines. Remember, these chemicals can migrate to skin, so what you wear matters for daily exposure.
Better guidance on fibre care & washing practices: Even with PFAS-free pieces, habits reduce microfiber shedding, chemical release (if any residues remain), and environmental impact:
These steps protect your clothes, your health, and rivers/oceans alike.
The momentum is building—regulations are tightening, alternatives are scaling, and awareness is rising. Let's turn knowledge into action: demand transparency, support innovators, and rethink our wardrobes. What PFAS-free changes have you made? Drop your swaps, tips, or questions below—we're in this thread together! #ThreadsOfKnowledge #PFASFree #SustainableFashion #ForeverChemicals @DerbyCommunityHub @ImFashion
Forever Chemicals need to be understood better, from interaction with these fibres to the chemicals that run off the ground to make them. Continue reading this post to learn what you can do about it today...
---
You can read more via https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz9vz249keno
Or you can watch the BBC Documentary via https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/l0057xw0/how-forever-chemicals-affect-your-health
---
Story continues...
---
As part of our ongoing coverage at @ImFashion via TXTWRK.com, we're diving deeper into this critical and evolving theme in fashion and textiles. The original BBC article (linked above) highlighted how PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as "forever chemicals"—are commonly used in items like school uniforms for their water- and stain-resistant properties. These persistent compounds don't break down, accumulating in bodies, water, soil, and wildlife, with established links to serious health concerns including certain cancers, thyroid issues, and more.
Fast-forward to today (February 3, 2026): The UK Government has just unveiled its first-ever national PFAS Plan—a coordinated framework to better understand sources, spread, and exposure risks while pushing for reduced use and safer alternatives. Key actions include ramped-up environmental testing (e.g., more monitoring of water, soils, and coastal areas), a forthcoming consultation on statutory limits for PFAS in England's public drinking water, and steps to align more closely with EU regulations by December 2028, which aim to restrict non-essential uses. While not a full ban yet, it signals progress toward protecting public health and the environment—though critics argue it's "crushingly disappointing" compared to bolder moves in places like France (banning PFAS in clothing/cosmetics from 2026) and Denmark.
Our take? This is a pivotal moment for the fashion industry to accelerate change. PFAS provide functional perks, but the long-term costs to human health (via skin contact and bioaccumulation) and the planet (via persistent pollution) are unacceptable. We want—and believe in—a future of better production, radical transparency, consumer empowerment, and practical care guidance so people can make informed choices about what touches their skin.
Better production & innovation: The phase-out is driving real advancements. Shift to proven PFAS-free alternatives like:
•Water-based or silicone-based repellents for effective water resistance without fluorine.
•Bio-based/plant-derived coatings (e.g., from renewable sources) for hydrophobic performance.
•Advanced durable water repellent (DWR) technologies, including fluorine-free options from innovators like Gore-Tex's newer membranes.
•Tightly woven natural fibers or mechanical treatments that achieve repellency naturally.
Raising awareness & smarter shopping: Scrutinize labels and marketing. Red flags include claims like "waterproof," "stain-repellent," "dirt-proof," or ingredients with "fluoro," "perfluoro," or "PFC." Seek out "PFAS-free," "PFC-free," or certifications like Bluesign-approved. Prioritize natural/organic fibers (e.g., organic cotton, wool, linen, TENCEL™) that often skip these treatments. Look for brands phasing out PFAS: Patagonia, Arc'teryx, The North Face, Adidas, Outerknown, Pact, Boody, and others lead here—many now offer fully PFAS-free lines. Remember, these chemicals can migrate to skin, so what you wear matters for daily exposure.
Better guidance on fibre care & washing practices: Even with PFAS-free pieces, habits reduce microfiber shedding, chemical release (if any residues remain), and environmental impact:
•Wash new garments before first wear to rinse manufacturing residues.
•Wash less frequently—spot clean or air out when possible to extend life and cut water use.
•Use cold water cycles (reduces shedding and energy).
•Try tools like Cora Ball, Guppyfriend bags, or filtering laundry systems to capture microplastics/PFAS particles before they enter waterways.
•Skip fabric softeners and high-heat dryers (they increase release); air dry instead.
•Choose PFAS-free or eco-labeled detergents—avoid those listing fluoro compounds.
The momentum is building—regulations are tightening, alternatives are scaling, and awareness is rising. Let's turn knowledge into action: demand transparency, support innovators, and rethink our wardrobes. What PFAS-free changes have you made? Drop your swaps, tips, or questions below—we're in this thread together! #ThreadsOfKnowledge #PFASFree #SustainableFashion #ForeverChemicals @DerbyCommunityHub @ImFashion
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