Episode 1010: Think Tank: PFA conflict flags existential questions for chemical industry

The current battle between manufacturers, regulators and the legal system over per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) highlights the need for careful consideration by the chemical sector of its long-term future and prosperity.  -          Industry opposes EU proposed ban on PFAs, US class action lawsuits underway-          Chemical companies need to take a 20-30 year view on their survival, prosperity-          Decisions must be based on the science rather than quarterly profits-          Chemical industry needs public trust for ‘licence to operate’ -          Industry will decline if bad reputation deters the best new talent-          Industry must leave its bunker and talk to the public-          Society needs to balance the need for useful chemicals against their toxicity-          EU regulatory complexity contrasts to US approach