MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Thirty-six out of the 40 leading brands tested by Greenpeace were found to contain Poly- and per-fluorinated compounds (PFCs). Applied for waterproof and dirt-repellent purposes to outdoor clothing among other products, PFCs have a slow breakdown rate once released in the environment and have been linked to reproduction and hormone system disruptions, as well as the growth of tumors.
"These are disappointing results for outdoor lovers who want their clothes to be as sustainable and clean as the places they explore," Greenpeace’s Detox Outdoor project leader Mirjam Kopp said.
Hiking equipment, including backpacks, tents and sleeping bags, were found to contain PFCs in addition to outdoor clothing and footwear.
"Together with the outdoor community, we challenge them to show us what true leadership and respect for nature means: stop using hazardous chemicals and detox their gear now," Kopp stressed.
Greenpeace launched a "Detox My Fashion" campaign in 2011 to ensure the removal of hazardous chemicals from use in the textile industry by 2020.
