5 Reasons to Avoid Paraffin and PFAS in Ski Wax
At Board Budder, we're committed to providing eco-friendly ski wax alternatives. In this post, we explore why we avoid using PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and paraffin in our wax, and how our environmentally responsible alternatives help you shred responsibly.
Introduction to Ski Wax Ingredients
Ski wax typically contains a mix of hydrocarbons, fluorocarbons, and other additives designed to reduce friction and protect the ski base. The most common ingredients: paraffin wax, a hydrocarbon-based compound that provides a smooth glide; fluorocarbons (PFAS), used for their water-repellent properties in wet snow; and other additives like molybdenum, graphite, and silicon.
1. Environmental Impact of PFAS
PFAS are persistent environmental pollutants found in ski waxes, leading to significant contamination of snow, soil, and water sources, as highlighted by high PFAS levels at ski race sites (Carlson and Tupper, 2020). These chemicals are known for their resistance to degradation, contributing to long-lasting environmental harm.
2. Health Concerns of PFAS
Professional ski waxers are exposed to high concentrations of PFAS, posing potential health risks such as hormonal disruptions and increased cancer risk (Nilsson et al., 2013). PFAS exposure is linked to developmental delays in children, decreased fertility, and immune system impacts (Anderko and Pennea, 2020).
3. Sustainability Challenges of Paraffin
Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, contributes to resource depletion and environmental pollution due to its non-renewable nature and the greenhouse gases emitted during production. The transition to bio-based waxes offers a sustainable alternative (Fei and Wang, 2017).
4. Health Risks of Paraffin
Burning paraffin wax releases harmful compounds, including VOCs and ultrafine particles, which pose health risks, especially to individuals frequently exposed to ski wax fumes, such as waxers and technicians (Bracco and Favre, 1998). Long-term exposure can lead to respiratory problems.
5. Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Board Budder, we vow to the vitality of our customers and the planet. We persistently explore and embrace sustainable methods to reduce the ecological footprint of our products. That is why we develop sustainable, biodegradable ski and snowboard wax without trade-offs in performance.
References
- Carlson, G., and Tupper, S. (2020). Ski wax use contributes to environmental contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Chemosphere, 261, 128078.
- Nilsson, H., et al. (2013). Professional ski waxers' exposure to PFAS and aerosol concentrations in gas phase and different particle size fractions. Environmental Science: Processes and Impacts, 15(4), 814-22.
- Anderko, L., and Pennea, E. (2020). Exposures to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): potential risks to reproductive and children's health. Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care, 50(2), 100760.
- Fei, T., and Wang, T. (2017). A review of recent development of sustainable waxes derived from vegetable oils. Current Opinion in Food Science, 16, 7-14.
- Bracco, D., and Favre, J. B. (1998). Pulmonary injury after ski wax inhalation exposure. Annals of Emergency Medicine, 32(5), 616-619.