Join us for a thought-provoking scientific discussion bringing together one scientist and two journalists to shed light on one of today's most pressing environmental concerns.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances — better known as PFAS — are everywhere. Found in non-stick cookware, food packaging, waterproof clothing, and even drinking water, these synthetic chemicals have quietly embedded themselves into almost every corner of our daily lives. And yet, for most of us, they remain largely invisible.
So what do we actually know about them? How far have research and regulation gone? And when the scale of the problem feels overwhelming — what can we realistically do?
This evening, our panel will unpack the science, the politics, and the human reality behind PFAS contamination. Together, they will explore several topics thanks to Dr. Micael Gouveia, Journalists Federica Tessari & Adriano Rodani.
The discussion will run for one hour, followed by an open Q&A session where the audience is warmly invited to ask their own questions.
Whether you're deeply familiar with the topic or hearing about PFAS for the first time, this is an evening designed to inform, empower, and spark conversation.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Our speakers
"Micael completed his BSc in Biotechnology and MSc in Nanotechnology in Lisbon, Portugal, before heading to Glasgow, UK, for a PhD in Polymer Chemistry. He is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), where he works on developing sensors for the detection of PFAS — better known as the infamous "forever chemicals" - in drinking water. Along the way, his research interests have expanded, beyond the lab bench, to the intersection of regulation, engineering, and the real-world applicability of PFAS detection and remediation technologies. In the everyday world, Micael is a self-appointed critic of labels and ingredient lists of consumer products, with a particular interest for spotting less-than-honest marketing tricks from companies."
Federica Tessari is an Italian freelance journalist, Brussels-based based, covering security, migrations and digital-social rights. Thanks to the JournalismFund Europe is currently working on a cross-border investigation exploring lacks and weaknesses of "Polluter Pay Principle".
"Adriano works at the intersection of campaign, advocacy, and policy analysis in the field of chemicals management, health and sustainability. He currently works as Campaign Coordinator of EDC-Free Europe, a coalition of public interest groups, representing more than 70 environmental, health, women's and consumer groups across Europe, who share a concern about hormone disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and their impact on our health and wildlife.
He is also an experienced facilitator and event moderator, having organised and hosted events with national and local politicians, journalists and activists. In 2024, Adriano coordinated a campaign to mobilise international residents to vote in Brussels' local elections."