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Simulation of the Planetary Interior Differentiation Processes in the Laboratory
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PFAS and Planetary Boundaries: Global Challenges for Waste Management and Policy Solutions
Roland Weber1, Lautaro Girones2,3
1POPs Environmental Consulting, 73527 Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany.
Environmental Science & Technology
|January 27, 2026
Summary
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) waste management is a weak link, driving environmental harm. Solutions include class-based regulation and extended producer responsibility to ensure planetary safety.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Earth System Science
Background:
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent, mobile anthropogenic chemicals.
- PFAS are a major subgroup of novel entities impacting planetary boundaries.
- Waste management is the weakest link in the PFAS life cycle, causing long-term releases and emissions.
Purpose of the Study:
- Examine how waste management weaknesses perpetuate planetary boundary transgression by PFAS.
- Outline governance and policy solutions for PFAS control.
- Align PFAS management with a safe operating space for the Earth system.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of PFAS life cycle and waste management practices.
- Review of international conventions (Basel and Stockholm).
- Development of a governance approach based on class-based regulation and essential-use concepts.
Main Results:
- Landfilling, suboptimal thermal treatments, and open burning of PFAS waste sustain environmental releases.
- Weaknesses in waste management amplify PFAS pressures, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
- Proposed governance includes essential-use concepts, BAT/BEP enforcement, and extended producer responsibility.
Conclusions:
- Structural weaknesses in waste management drive PFAS-related planetary boundary transgression.
- A governance approach centered on class-based regulation, essential-use, and strict enforcement is needed.
- Strengthened accountability through EPR, polluter-pays, and product traceability, supported by finance and technology partnerships, is crucial.
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