Part 1: The Diagnosis
Why PFAS Exit Efforts Underperform or Stall
Going PFAS-free isn’t a simple substitution task. From our work with global manufacturers, we see the same critical gaps that lead to stalled projects, budget overruns, and regrettable substitutions.
Underestimate Complexity
Alternatives rarely match all critical PFAS performance parameters, leading to hidden failures in durability, safety, or processing.
Define Problems Narrowly
Focusing only on "drop-in replacements" without questioning PFAS's functional role or potential design/process changes misses better solutions.
Rely on Supplier Claims
Accepting substitutes based on brochures or limited testing risks non-compliance or underperformance in real-world use.
Ignore Regulatory Trajectories
Some "PFAS-free" substitutes are themselves under future scrutiny. Choices made today must withstand tomorrow's regulations.
Work in Functional Silos
Projects led only by procurement or R&D often miss sustainability, compliance, operational, and customer integration needs.
Use Trial-and-Error Approaches
Lack of a structured framework causes costly, slow substitution efforts with no guaranteed outcome.
Data & Software Chaos
Relying on fragmented spreadsheets and disconnected systems for compliance tracking creates data silos and guarantees inefficiency.
Miss Strategic Opportunity
Treating PFAS exit purely as compliance forfeits brand differentiation, market access, and circularity advantages.
