The cost of inaction: a socioeconomic analysis of environmental and health impacts linked to exposure to PFAS
Goldenman, G.; Fernandes, M.; Holland, M.; Tugran, T.; Nordin, A.; Schoumacher, C.; McNeill, A. (2019). The cost of inaction: a socioeconomic analysis of environmental and health impacts linked to exposure to PFAS. TemaNord Environment, 2019(516). Nordic Council of Ministers: Copenhagen. ISBN 978-92-893-6064-7; e-ISBN 978-92-893-6065-4. 191 pp. https://dx.doi.org/10.6027/TN2019-516
Part of: TemaNord Environment. Nordic Council of Ministers: København. ISSN 0908-6692, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Goldenman, G.
- Fernandes, M.
- Holland, M.
- Tugran, T.
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- Nordin, A.
- Schoumacher, C.
- McNeill, A.
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| Abstract |
PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkylsubstances) are known to be extremely difficult to degrade in the environment and to be bioaccumulative and toxic. Exposure to PFAS is suspected to increase the risk of adverse health effects, such as impacts on the thyroid gland, the liver, fat metabolism and the immunesystem. This study estimates the socioeconomic costs that may result from impacts on human health and the environment from the use of PFAS. Better awareness of the costs and problems associated with PFAS exposure will assist decision-makers and the general public to make more efficient and timely risk management decisions. Findings indicate that the costs are sub-stantial, with annual health-related costs estimated to 2.8 – 4.6 billion EUR for the Nordic countries and 52 – 84 billion EUR for all EEA countries. Overall non-health costs are estimated at 46 million – 11 billion EUR for the Nordic countries. |
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