Description

Invisible Danger: PFAS in Everyday Life

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are extremely long-lasting, man-made chemicals. Due to their water- and grease-repellent properties, they are found in outdoor clothing, pans, or packaging. The problem: PFAS accumulate relentlessly in the environment as well as in groundwater and are already detectable in the blood of 99% of all people – with serious health risks such as cancer or organ damage. Despite this enormous relevance, the topic is hardly known among the population or is confused with microplastics.

Aim & Method of the Project

The aim of this bachelor’s thesis is to explain the complex topic of PFAS and make it understandable to the general public. As a method, an interactive scrollytelling format was developed for a website. While scrolling, users learn visually and narratively where PFAS come from, what risks they pose, and how they can become politically active to support a ban.