At RC Pets, we are dedicated to continuously minimizing the negative impacts of our business while maximizing the positive ones. Recognizing that many of these impacts arise from the materials we choose for our products, we have been diligently working to become PFAS -free by 2025. All products requiring a water repellent finish manufactured on or after January 1, 2025 will use PFAS-free DWR/WR.
What is PFAS?
- PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), are a group of chemicals used in various products because they resist heat, water, and oil. In our products, they are used in the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, which helps keep the fabric dry.
Why are they being banned?
- PFAS are being banned because they are harmful to both the environment and human health. Known as "forever chemicals," they do not break down and can build up in water, soil, and living organisms over time.
- While PFAS in our DWR coatings do not pose safety risks to pets, they have long-term environmental impacts. As industry leaders, we are committed to reducing this impact and ensuring our products are environmentally responsible.
Where are they being banned?
- While many states are considering tighter PFAS restrictions, California and New York are introducing stricter regulations on January 1, 2025, to limit PFAS in consumer goods due to their health and environmental risks. These laws will impact the production, sale, and distribution of many products containing these substances.
What does this mean:
- From January 1, 2025, products containing PFAS will not be available to California or New York customers. We have already transitioned some of the affected skus, but other items will be temporarily unavailable in this region.
Which current products are impacted?
- Water Resistant Apparel: Cascade, Shasta, Vista, District, Delta, Repel, Packable Rain Poncho, Luna High Vis Vest. Exceptions that are already PFAS Compliant: Cascade Sapphire, Shasta Checkmate and Poncho Sunshine, Rain Drops, Squiggles & Raining Cats and dogs
- Heather and Patterned Accessories: PUP Bag, Packable Water Bowl, Trekker Travel Mat and Trekker Seat Cover. Exceptions that are already PFAS Compliant: Quick Grab Treat Bag all colours, PUP Bag Heather Black, Olive and Azalea, Essential Treat Bag all colours
- Tidal Lifejacket
- Cool Comfort Mat
- Tempo No Pull Harness Exceptions that are already PFAS Compliant: Heather Black