American Sustainable Business Network Supports Biden-Harris Administration’s Action to Cut ‘Forever Chemicals’ Use in Federal Buildings:
Sustainable business leaders celebrate EPA/GSA leadership in protecting workers from “forever chemicals” by promoting safer cleaning products.

Washington, DC – The American Sustainable Business Network celebrates last week’s announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) on the action to cut PFAS “forever chemicals” in a planned multiyear phase-out in more than 1,500 U.S. government-owned buildings across the nation. The U.S. federal government is the largest single buyer of goods and services in the world, with GSA custodial services contracts totaling more than $400 million per year.

ASBN – a network collectively representing thousands of business owners and investors – has long supported phasing out PFAS and commends the collaboration between the EPA and GSA as a crucial step toward honoring the Biden administration’s commitment to tackle PFAS – a move that will reward innovation and support companies that already market products that are free from intentionally-added PFAS.

“Many responsible businesses have already taken a precautionary and proactive approach in making products safer and eliminating harmful chemicals, including choosing not to incorporate the class of an estimated 15,000 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – chemicals known collectively as PFAS,” said David Levine, ASBN co-founder and president. “Many have gone the extra mile to be early adopters of certifications such as EPA’s Safer Choice, as well as Green Seal® certifications.”

“Such a simple switch like changing the requirements in federal contracts can have massive positive consequences for the lives of everyday workers and the families of those workers,”  said Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, President & CEO of ECOS, an ASBN member. “PFAS are known carcinogens and have no place in sustainable products. That’s why ECOS has made a commitment to PFAS-free products. We celebrate the new approach by the federal government as a win for worker rights and a healthier – and still prosperous – future for planet and people.”

Learn more about The Business Case for Eliminating PFAS Chemicals from Consumer Products.

See ASBN’s statement in support of PFAS legislation: Broad Coalition Supports Legislation to Promote Federal Purchasing of PFAS Alternatives (May 11, 2023)

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American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) is a movement builder in partnership with the business and investor community. ASBN develops and advocates solutions for policymakers, business leaders, and investors that support an equitable, regenerative, and just economy that benefits all — people and planet. As a multi-issue, membership organization advocating on behalf of every business sector, size, and geography, ASBN and its association members collectively represent thousands of businesses across our networks. ASBN partners with some of the most impactful brands to develop and advocate solutions for policymakers that support an equitable economy for all.

Press Contact:
Anayana White
anayana@asbnetwork.org
(907) 301-6423