MƒA Thursday Think: Understanding PFAS: The Invisible Environmental Threat

Imagine a hidden threat: nearly 15,000 synthetic chemicals persisting in our water, soil, and even the air we breathe. Known as "forever chemicals" due to their extreme resistance to breakdown, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are found in everyday products such as non-stick cookware, popcorn bags, and firefighting foams. Mounting evidence links these pervasive substances to significant health risks, including compromised immune system disruption and developmental harm to children and wildlife. Addressing this critical environmental challenge requires bold innovation. In this talk, Dr. Mohamed (Moha) Ateia Ibrahim will discuss the complex science of PFAS, the advanced technologies used to capture and destroy them, and promising alternatives to the PFAS-containing products we rely on to inspire a collective effort toward a PFAS-free world.

Dr. Mohamed (Moha) Ateia Ibrahim is a globally recognized environmental engineer and strategist focused on scalable, high-impact solutions in water treatment, sustainable chemistry, and emerging contaminant management. As a Water Technology Specialist at AECOM, he supports the Water, Environment, and Advisory business lines. Previously, as a Principal Investigator in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, he led initiatives and multidisciplinary teams to develop technology-driven, economically viable, and policy-shaping solutions that optimize resource efficiency and mitigate global environmental risks. With deep expertise at the intersection of science, policy, and business strategy, Moha has influenced corporate sustainability, regulatory frameworks, and industrial best practices, ensuring scientific breakthroughs translate into real-world, scalable impact. He has authored 80+ peer-reviewed publications, earned prestigious honors including The Honda Young-Engineers-Scientists (Y-E-S) First Place Prize, and was named to the "40 Under 40" list by the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists. A proven leader in problem-solving and decision-making, Moha combines data-driven insights, cross-sector collaboration, and innovation strategy to help organizations navigate environmental challenges, unlock opportunities, and drive long-term resilience.

Info: Dinner will be served from 4:30 p.m. - 5:20 p.m.

Info: Mohamed Ateia Ibrahim, Ph.D., lecture and Q&A

Info: Join Dr. Mohamed (Moha) Ateia Ibrahim for dumplings, desserts, and drinks.

Host or Publisher Math for America