Waterproofs are fantastic if you work outside in the UK or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, shooting, and horse riding. You never know when the weather could change. So, it’s good to have them to ensure you will be dry and warm if it rains. However, you need to be careful what you choose. Some products actually pose a threat to the environment, people, and wildlife because they contain forever chemicals. Let’s have a closer look at them and the impact they can have.

What are they?

It can be quite tricky to make different materials waterproof, particularly fabrics. But, there are a number of synthetic chemicals that can do it. Known as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or Perfluorochemicals (PFCs), they can ensure water beads on the surface and flows off rather than soaking in.

PFAS and PFCs naturally became very popular. There was a boom in the 60s, particularly for clothing. They last a long time too, ensuring garments can provide protection for years.

What harm can they cause?

Like a number of other substances, including asbestos, it took time to realise PFAS and PFCs could actually be harmful. Today though, we know more about the damage they can cause to people, wildlife, and the environment. As a result, many brands are phasing them out or are PFAS and PFC-free. It’s a good idea to look at this when you’re buying waterproofs.

The key thing to keep in mind is PFAS and PFCs take a very long time to break down. This is why they got the nickname forever chemicals. When they enter soil and waterways, they can persist for centuries. They also cause harm to animals and humans, accumulating over time in the body. It can lead to serious health problems, including cancer and liver damage.

There are several parts of the world where land is no longer usable because of forever chemicals. For example, Zwijndrecht, Belgium is notorious for contamination from the 3M PFAS factory. Land in the city is so polluted locals were advised to not consume home-grown vegetables and eggs, not drink groundwater, and even be careful when digging up soil while gardening. 3M is paying 571m Euros for remediation.

Choose products carefully

With more knowledge of the danger of forever chemicals, it’s important to ensure you know exactly which products contain them. This can include different types of waterproofs as well as other goods such as cookware, carpets, food packaging, and even things like car polish and cosmetics.

It’s also crucial to understand how the PFAS and PFCs can get into the environment. Routine things like washing clothing and cookware causes them to shed, entering water systems. Disposing of goods incorrectly, particularly when they go to landfill, causes soil pollution.

As we said above, many brands now offer PFAS and PFC-free products, including waterproof jackets and trousers. You can even choose tents, gloves, bags, and more. They can perform very well in wet weather.

Talk to us about waterproofs

JS Hubbuck Ltd has been helping to equip farmers for generations. We provide a wide range of fantastic products, including fertiliser, animal feeds, and various types of footwear and clothing. We also have great products for people who love shooting and other outdoor hobbies.

So, if you need anything, speak to us.