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Risk assessment and mitigation are key to dealing with “forever chemicals”
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — RTI International experts are available for media interview related to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and human health concerns. These nearly indestructible “forever chemicals” are making headlines daily with increased consumer and regulatory attention for their association with numerous health problems including cancer, high blood pressure and thyroid disorders. The class of compounds includes thousands of human-made chemicals with a strong carbon-fluorine bond that are used to make everyday items to provide water or stain repellency like outdoor gear, cosmetics, non-stick cookware and furniture.
Imari Walker-Franklin, Ph.D., is a research chemist with RTI’s Discovery Science Division and a microplastics expert. She can speak to the connection between microplastics and PFAS and how chemicals accumulate in people’s bodies and cause harm. She is also a YouTube influencer where she provides consumer tips on plastic pollution, chemicals in commonly used products and the environment.
Jennifer Hoponick Redmon, MSES, MPA, CHMM, is the director of the environmental health and water quality program at RTI International and by trade is a senior scientist and chemical risk assessment specialist. She can discuss topics such as PFAS use in consumer products, how PFAS get into our environment, the prevalence of PFAS in well water and public water supplies, how individuals can reduce potential PFAS exposure, and why they are receiving regulatory attention.
Jamie Pero-Parker, Ph.D., is the sustainability team lead within the RTI Innovation Advisors with an academic background in chemistry. She is an expert in chemicals of concern including PFAS, the circular economy, sustainable packaging, and ocean plastics. She can speak about her research related to alternative options for commercial applications including future use of recycled PET plastic and advanced recycling technologies.
To set up an interview with one of RTI’s PFAS experts, please contact RTI Media Relations
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