Important to note that the Gore-TEX membrane is made from PFAS, a forever chemical that is absolutely destroying the health of virtually every living thing on the planet. Correction: As of 2022, Gore-TEX will no longer use PFAS in their membrane [0] however PFAS will continue to be used in the durable water-resistant coating [1].
Why PFAS are so concerning:
1. PFAS and PFOA are known as forever chemicals because they virtually never break down under normal conditions and therefore bio-accumulate in all living organisms.
2. 99% of Americans are known to have toxic levels of PFAS or PFOS in their blood. Toxic levels of PFAS are found in rainwater all over the world - even Antarctica and Tibet. There is no rainwater anywhere in the world that is safe to drink.
3. There is no known safe level of PFAS/PFOS in the system. The EPA currently rates the recommended level at under 0.04 parts per trillion. The best testing methods can only measure as low as 4 parts per trillion.
4. PFAS are known to cause an incredible number of diseases including various cancers, obesity, liver disease, thyroid disease, kidney disfunction, and a wide range of fertility issues in both the parents and the children.
Why PFAS are so concerning:
1. PFAS and PFOA are known as forever chemicals because they virtually never break down under normal conditions and therefore bio-accumulate in all living organisms.
2. 99% of Americans are known to have toxic levels of PFAS or PFOS in their blood. Toxic levels of PFAS are found in rainwater all over the world - even Antarctica and Tibet. There is no rainwater anywhere in the world that is safe to drink.
3. There is no known safe level of PFAS/PFOS in the system. The EPA currently rates the recommended level at under 0.04 parts per trillion. The best testing methods can only measure as low as 4 parts per trillion.
4. PFAS are known to cause an incredible number of diseases including various cancers, obesity, liver disease, thyroid disease, kidney disfunction, and a wide range of fertility issues in both the parents and the children.
[0] https://www.gore-tex.com/pressroom/press-release/responsibil...
[1] https://toxicfreefuture.org/press-room/gore-tex-manufacturer...