Toxics experts call for action to protect Canadians from forever chemicals [Video]

OTTAWA –

Nearly a year after Health Canada issued a draft recommendation to designate an entire class of chemicals as toxic, environmental experts say it’s time to actually do something about it.

There are now more than 10,000 variations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are used in hundreds of products from waterproof cosmetics and stain repellents to carpeting and non-stick cookware.

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Scientifically they are referred to by the acronym PFAS, pronounced like Pea-fass. But many call them “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down.

Cassie Barker, the toxics program manager at Environmental Defence, told the House of Commons environment committee Thursday that the chemicals have one of the strongest bonds in organic chemistry, making it nearly impossible for them to break down.

“Instead they persist forever and accumulate in the environment and our bodies for years,” Barker said.

Studies have linked them to significant health problems including cancers, hormone disruptions, immune …