Finavia's firefighting exercises do not use firefighting foams containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) that have been classified as harmful by the authorities.
Over the years, researchers and authorities as well as product manufacturers and users have gained an understanding of the long-term effects of PFAS, and, as a result, the use of previously approved products has been restricted or banned.
About PFAS
- PFAS = per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances
- Extensively used for decades in, for example, Teflon and Gore-Tex products in addition to firefighting foams
- The use of the most harmful PFAS has been restricted globally and in the EU for more than 10 years
- Exposure to PFAS through food, household dust and air is difficult to avoid
Firefighting foams containing PFAS were previously used in rescue operations' firefighting exercises at Finavia's airports. The use of these firefighting foams in the exercises was discontinued in 2012. We always comply with the provisions in the environmental permit and actively discuss our practices with the authorities.
As part of the regular environmental monitoring related to Finavia's environmental permits, we monitor surface water and groundwater in the vicinity of airport firefighting exercise areas in accordance with the survey plans approved by the environmental authorities.