Nature, Published online: 26 March 2025; doi:10.1038/d41586-025-00882-xA method for the degradation of forever chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) coupled with fluoride recovery has been developed by applying a phosphateenabled mechanochemical process. This approach reduces the environmental impact of PFAS and could supplement fluorspar, the fast-depleting mineral used for producing fluorochemicals.