Greenpeace says testing has found hazardous and persistent chemicals in leading brands of outdoor clothing and gear. The environmental group is calling on manufacturers to eliminate PFCs which they use to make products waterproof and dirt repellent.
200 Scientists recommend avoiding PFCS
More than 200 scientists from 38 countries have signed the Madrid Statement which recommends avoiding the use of PFCs (per and poly-fluorinated chemicals) in consumer goods.
The chemicals are believed to be dangerous to human health and the environment, and they break down very slowly. Greenpeace notes they have been found in pristine and remote environments, and in the livers of Arctic polar bears and human blood.
Products including clothing, shoes, tents, backpacks, ropes and sleeping bags were tested. Out of 40, only four had no detectable PFCs. None of the four products are available in Canada.
Worldwide campaign against hazardous chemicals
Greenpeace is urging all outdoor apparel companies to join its Detox My Fashion campaign and remove PFCs from their products. It notes the UK brand Pàramo Directional Clothing has already done so and eliminated the use of the chemicals in its products.
The North Face told Canadian Press it is testing alternatives and wants to remove PFCs from all clothing by 2020. Patagonia said some other options become less effective over time, and replacements have their own environmental costs.
Greenpeace says it uses only PFC-free clothing and staff members are satisfied with it.
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