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This video features Lutz Ahrens, recorded during the PARC Consortium Meeting in Dublin in June 2026, which brought together partners from across the Partnership for the Assessment of Risks from Chemicals (PARC).

Lutz Ahrens, who works at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, explains how PFAS are a prioritised group of chemicals in PARC, with many research projects focusing on this important class of substances.

PFAS are a unique class of chemicals, known for their high persistence, bioaccumulation potential and toxic effects. They comprise a very large and diverse group of substances that have been used for decades in a wide range of products and applications.

Despite extensive research, many knowledge gaps remain regarding PFAS, including their properties, exposure and potential impacts on human health and the environment. The current regulatory framework does not yet fully address the challenges posed by this broad group of chemicals, highlighting the need for continued research and stronger regulatory attention.