Brannigan Lab
Sustainable Polymer Chemistry
& Degradable Biomaterials
The PolyFASt project
PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used in various products for many years, from non-stick cookware and food packaging, to water resistant clothing and fire fighting foams. The problem with PFAS lies in their ability to resist environmental break down, meaning that once released into the air, water, or soil, they can remain in the environment for a long time. This has led to widespread contamination of PFAS in many parts of the world, and PFAS gaining the unfortunately apt nickname ‘forever chemicals’. One of the major worries about PFAS exposure is their potentially harmful health effects. Research has shown that prolonged contact with PFAS may be linked to various health problems like cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders, and developmental issues in children. When we are exposed to PFAS through contaminated water these chemicals can build up in our bodies over time, leading to these negative health issues.
The PolyFASt project aims to help remove these harmful ‘forever chemicals’ from Irish waterways using an innovative one-size-fits-all filter system. This unique filter will be able to selectively trap PFAS, removing them from the environment and improving the health of the environment, wildlife and future generations.
For more information and to keep up to date on the PolyFast project go to the PolyFASt website, follow us on Twitter or email us at polyfast.solutions@gmail.com. If you would like to take part in the project, we are currently running an anonymous knowledge discovery survey to gauge public knowledge on PFAS, which you can partake in here.
Environmental pollutant remediation holds immense importance due to its significant impact on the health and well-being of ecosystems and human populations. The presence of pollutants in the environment poses serious threats to various aspects of life, including air, water, soil, and biodiversity. It is crucial for protecting human health by reducing the risk of respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and other health hazards caused by air pollutants. Remediation also plays a vital role in preserving ecosystems, preventing the death of aquatic species, biodiversity loss, and the degradation of coral reefs and wetlands. Additionally, by remediating contaminated soil, we can safeguard agricultural productivity, food security, and the health of terrestrial organisms. Environmental pollutant remediation supports sustainable development by promoting economic growth, reducing healthcare costs, and creating cleaner and healthier environments. It also contributes to climate change mitigation by addressing greenhouse gas emissions and working towards a more sustainable future. By reducing pollution and implementing sustainable practices, we can ensure long-term environmental stability, minimizing the impact of hazardous substances on the environment and future generations.