You’ll start by learning the chemistry behind PFAS—why they’re known as "forever chemicals," how they end up in our environment, and how they’re detected. You’ll also examine their effects on both human and environmental health.

Next, we’ll dive into the legal frameworks designed to protect us from the harms of PFAS and explore the potential for groundbreaking legislative strategies that could lead to a complete ban on these chemicals. You’ll engage in discussions about what constitutes "essential uses" of chemicals and how we can avoid harmful alternatives when replacing PFAS with safer options.

As we move forward, we’ll explore the roles of consumers and producers in managing PFAS risks and understand the responsibilities and liabilities that come with producing these chemicals. The course concludes with a focus on risk perception—how people view the dangers of PFAS—and how we can use effective communication strategies to inform and educate the public on the issue of "forever chemicals."

Throughout the course, you’ll engage in a mix of lectures, interactive debates, hands-on assignments, and creative projects that challenge you to use new media to communicate complex science to a broader audience. This is your chance to get involved in one of our time's most important environmental and health issues!

Coordinator

Dr. Milo L. de Baat, Ph.D.

Timetable

All lectures will take place on-campus and we assume you can be physically present during the scheduled hours. You can find the timetable on Datanose.

Registration

Registration is possible for students participating in an Honours programme. The registration period for the Honours courses will be from June 6, 10:00 am to June 10, 11.59 pm. You can register through the online registration form that will appear on Honoursmodules IIS. (registration is NOT through SIS)

Please note: Placement is not guaranteed if you register after June 10, so make sure you register on time. You will hear which course(s) you are registered for before the end of June. 

For questions about registration, please contact us at: honours-iis@uva.nl.