16851_Authority_Aug_2023

municipalauthorities.org | 49 2006 Studies expose how fluorinated chemistries — the stuff that makes waterproof gear hydrophobic — endanger our health. We start researching DWR (durable water re- pellent) finishes made without PFOA (one of the more commonly used fluorocarbons at the time). 2009 We begin converting our waterproof chemistries from long-chain C8 mol- ecules — such as PFOA and PFOS, considered the worst of the bunch — to C6. 2011 Greenpeace’s “Detox” campaign calls out Nike and Adidas for using polluting chemicals. We aren’t named but know we’re a part of the problem, too. 2015 We kick off R&D trials for PFC-free DWR. 2016 So long, C8. We finish the move from the long-chain fluorocarbon to the (seemingly) less insidious C6 across all products. 2017 ------. Research emerges that C6 is just as damaging. This is what chemists call a “regrettable substitution.” It re- inforces our commitment to eliminate “forever chemicals” forever. 2019 We introduce our first round of gear built with PFC-free DWR finishes, including select products like the Pack Rain Covers. 2021 Our first slate of PFC-free technical gear—built with waterproofing on both the garment’s finish and the inner membrane—launches with the Dual Aspect Jacket and Bibs, and Mi- cro Puff® Storm. 2022 Getting closer. Every All Mountain Snow product and all nonwaterproof Patagonia products with a DWR fin- ish are 100% PFC-free in both fabric and trim. In total by volume, 66% of our products with DWR finishes are PFC-free. 2023 The lineup gets longer: All H₂No® Per- formance Standard Alpine rainwear is 100% PFC-free, including the rede- signed Torrentshell. 2024 Our target year to reach 100% PFC- and PFAS-free across all products. Fishing waders will be the last to get there, thanks to their complexity. Look for those in 2025. The Path to PFC-Free Milestones and mistakes on our nearly 20-year journey. Field testing alpine gear during a Patagonia climbing event in Scotland. Photo: Jason Thompson