What You Need to Know about the EPA's New Regulations on 'Forever Chemicals' in Drinking Water
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently made headlines with ambitious regulations addressing the presence of 'forever chemicals' in tap water. Of concern are the persistence and possible health effects of these chemicals, called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in scientific parlance. So what do these new limits mean for you and your community?
Speaking of ‘Forever Chemicals'
PFAS (poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been in use for multiple decades, performing an array of functions including making materials water-, oil-, and stain-repellent. Due to their special properties they are not harmed by water, grease or other materials that might stain them and so feature again in many items such as non stick cookware, waterproof clothing and food packaging. The problem is these benefits come at a cost, as PFAS do not degrade easily, acquiring the nickname 'forever chemicals.
The New Regulations
The EPA has also announced new limits for the PFAS concentration in public water supplies due to increasing worries about declines in drinking water safety. The rules, which are designed to protect people from the health risks associated with years of exposure to these chemicals that have been tied by scientific research and epidemiological studies on animals and humans to liver damage, immune system effects in children's brains , cancers like .
Under the new guidelines, water utilities would also be required to regularly test for these chemicals and take action if PFAS levels rise above set limits. These will incorporate not just the examination of current pollution yet besides arrangement frameworks to decrease PFAS in water.
Implications for people and communities
These standards essentially mean that drinking water for everyday consumers must be clean and free of any contaminants. Once the new limits are realigned, enhanced treatment processes could be readied for implementation in areas formerly impacted by PFAS where drinking water contain over-stated levels of these compounds.
By serving the community, it is also raising awareness in that same community. This simultaneously also gives the residents information to advocate for a cleaner water process and put pressure on their local bodies so as to control more strictly about how they use PFAS.
What Can You Do?
Subscribe to receive local water quality reports. Most municipalities are required to publish annual water quality reports that specifically address the levels of contaminants, including PFAS. If you're worried about these chemicals from your tap, look for a water filter that has been certified to remove PFAS.
Engage with local environmental groups and attend a public meeting on water safety. Together we are trying to keep people healthy and YOUR voice can help.
Conclusion
Final limits in new EPA rule cracking down on 'forever chemicals' a major milestone for public health and safe drinking water Learn what these regulations mean, and how you can use that information to proactively get the water quality your municipality needs as well support a public health initiative in your own community.