Forever Chemicals and Indigenous Lands: The Miccosukee Tribe’s Stand for Environmental Health

New research conducted by Florida International University (FIU) has identified the presence of multiple per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on the Miccosukee Tribe’s reservation in Florida. As reported by Bioengineer.org (2025), the study published in the journal Environmental Research provides critical insight into the prevalence and ecological implications of PFAS contamination within this culturally and environmentally significant region. PFAS are synthetic chemicals renowned for their resistance to heat, water, and stains, widely used in consumer products ranging from non-stick cookware to water-repellent fabrics and long-lasting cosmetics (Bioengineer.org, 2025)”. Known as “forever chemicals”, PFAS substances do not readily degrade, which causes them to build up in the environment over time. This long term environmental persistence contributes to widespread contamination across ecosystems and poses serious public health concerns. Exposure to PFAS has been associated with a range of adverse health effects, including liver and kidney dysfunction, thyroid disease, immune system suppression, reproductive and developmental issues, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Because these substances can bioaccumulate through the food chain and are detectable in human blood and tissues, their presence represents a growing environmental and health crisis that requires coordinated scientific, regulatory, and community responses.

Reference

Bioengineer. (2025, October 16). PFAS contaminants identified for the first time on Miccosukee Indian Reservation: Implications for Everglades water quality. Bioengineer.org. https://bioengineer.org/pfas-contaminants-identified-for-the-first-time-on-miccosukee-indian-reservation-implications-for-everglades-water-quality/