Fighting the chemicals we cannot see: The battle against PFAS

This episode tackles one of the biggest environmental and public health challenges of our time: PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals”. They’re found in everything from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. When PFAS contamination was discovered around the Royal Australian Air Force base near Newcastle, residents like Lindsay Clout were left searching for answers about what the chemicals meant for their health, livelihoods and future. Through Lindsay’s powerful firsthand account, we explore the impact of living in a contamination zone and the long fight for recognition and action. Host Shahni Wellington also speaks with University of Newcastle experts Professor Ravi Naidu and Dr Jacinta Martin about the science behind PFAS, the risks they pose, and groundbreaking research aimed at removing PFAS from contaminated soil, water and even our bodies. From community advocacy to scientific advances, this is a story of resilience, discovery and those fighting against an enemy we cannot see. This episode includes personal experiences and views from a community member affected by PFAS contamination. Those views are their own. Discussion of PFAS and potential health impacts reflects current scientific understanding available at the time of recording. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.