PFAS in Ski Wax: Human Health & Environmental Implications (webinar)

Note: This webinar is presented for informational purposes. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of each of the NEWMOA-member states, and the strategies and technologies discussed should not be considered an endorsement by NEWMOA or its members.

Gail Carlson, Colby College presented Environmental Contamination from Fluorinated Ski Wax Use [PDF]. The use of fluorinated ski waxes in nordic and alpine skiing is beneficial for performance but disastrous for contaminating the environment with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals”). Snow and soil at ski areas contain PFAS residues that can be correlated with ski wax use. The recent bans on fluorinated waxes in competitive skiing from the local to the international level reduces environmental pollution and likely lowers human exposure

Kathryn Crawford, Middlebury College presented Evaluating PFAS Exposure from Fluorinated Waxes Among US Snow Sport Participants [PDF]. Performance ski waxes are applied to the base of skis and snowboards to reduce friction with snow and waxes can contain up to 100% per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by mass. PFAS exposure among recreational and armature skiers and snowboarders is poorly understood. To learn more about skiers’ PFAS exposure, we conducted a pilot study to collect blood samples in 30 adult skiers who have personally applied wax to their skis at least one time. This study highlights the need for engagement with the ski and snowboard community around interventions to reduce wax-related PFAS exposure.

View the Recording – Note that the recording ends after the third poll question because data that was not yet published was discussed

For more information, contact Jennifer Griffith at jgriffith@newmoa.org.