In recent times, the automotive industry has demonstrated notable efforts towards enhancing sustainability. These efforts manifest in various forms – from improving fuel efficiency, promoting electric vehicles, to adopting eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Alongside these significant strides, another environmental consideration that demands the attention of each automotive Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and supplier includes the so-called “forever chemicals”, particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
The issues around PFAS have made frequent appearances on news headlines, prompting vigilant measures from automobile industry professionals. With the persistent nature of these chemicals and the implications they might pose on businesses and the environment, it becomes even more critical for stakeholders not to overlook the PFAS problem.
In response to this impending challenge, conducting regular risk audits, especially focused on PFAS risk, might offer the most suitable strategy. The audits would enhance the understanding of the PFAS situation, its potential risks to the business, and establish effective measures to manage those risks.
Industry-wide adoption of risk audits would not only alleviate detrimental environmental impacts of these forever chemicals but also safeguard the integrity and sustainability initiatives of the automotive businesses.
To delve deeper into the PFAS issue and the importance of risk audits, refer to the exhaustive article on the subject from Foley & Lardner LLP.