Global Disparities in the Regulation of PFASs: The Risk of Shifting the PFAS Pollution Burden to Developing Countries

The environmental health challenges of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are well-documented in developed countries, where serious efforts are underway to implement stricter regulations to lower PFAS emissions. However, in developing countries where PFASs have been detected at levels similar to those in developed countries, there is a lack of comparable research or efforts on addressing PFAS pollution. These gaps also apply to many other industrial chemicals and are underpinned by imbalances in chemical regulation between developed and developing countries. These imbalances are likely to create multifaceted global challenges, including the illegal use and trade of PFASs and their products, the relocation of PFAS-based industries, and the global recirculation of PFAS pollution. These challenges can exacerbate pressure on developing countries already grappling with other critical environmental issues. In this Perspective, we explore these challenges arising from global disparities in the regulation of PFASs and other chemicals, along with their repercussions. We propose solutions to bridge the regulatory gaps, including broad, worldwide PFAS bans and regulations, increased funding for PFAS monitoring and emissions reduction, and joint initiatives with developed countries. These efforts would ensure that PFAS management extends beyond the developed world to countries with high economic aspirations and limited resources to address chemical pollution.