PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body.
Exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to kidney disease, low-birth weight, high cholesterol, and certain cancers.
The EPA initially set limits on two common types of PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) at 4 parts per trillion but is now extending the deadline for utilities to meet these limits to 2031.
The EPA plans to scrap limits on three less well-known types of PFAS, including GenX substances, PFHxS, and PFNA, as well as a limit on mixtures of PFAS.
Environmental groups criticize the EPA's decision to weaken regulations, while industry groups have mixed reactions, citing concerns about cost and underlying science.
Why this matters: Understanding the evolving regulations around PFAS is essential for communities, water utilities, and individuals to protect public health and ensure access to safe drinking water. The changes reflect ongoing debates about the balance between regulatory stringency, scientific evidence, and the cost of compliance.
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals used in various products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam, due to their resistance to breaking down. This same property makes them persistent in the environment, leading to widespread contamination of air, water, and soil. The Biden administration had previously set strict limits on PFOA and PFOS, two common types of PFAS, based on scientific evidence of their potential health risks.
The EPA's decision to extend deadlines for compliance and rescind limits on certain PFAS reflects ongoing debate and considerations of cost and feasibility. While some argue that these changes weaken public health protections, others point to the need for more time and resources for water utilities to comply with regulations.
Utilities now have until 2031 to meet the PFOA and PFOS limits. Sampling has found nearly 12% of U.S. water utilities exceed Biden administration limits. The EPA's actions only partially address the issue, and more is needed to prevent significant impacts on local communities and other unintended consequences.
Q: What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that resist breaking down in the environment.
Q: Why are PFAS harmful?
PFAS accumulate in the body and have been linked to various health problems, including kidney disease, low-birth weight, high cholesterol, and certain cancers.
Q: What is the EPA doing about PFAS?
The EPA is adjusting limits on certain PFAS in drinking water, extending deadlines for compliance with PFOA and PFOS limits, and rescinding limits on other PFAS types.
Be aware of the potential presence of PFAS in your drinking water.
Stay informed about local water quality reports and EPA regulations.
Consider using water filters certified to remove PFAS.
Advocate for stronger regulations and investments in water treatment infrastructure.
The EPA plans to scrap limits on three types of PFAS, some of which are less well known. They include GenX substances commonly found in North Carolina as well as substances called PFHxS and PFNA.
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