Victory Against Forever Chemicals: US Sets Landmark Limits on PFAS in Drinking Water
Health advocates and campaigners are celebrating a notable milestone in the battle against toxic chemicals in drinking water as the United States impents its first-ever federal restriction on PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as “forever chemicals.”
Photo by Steve Johnson
The rule, pushed through by the Biden administration on April 10, marks an essential step towards safeguarding America's health by preventing a number of illnesses that can be linked to PFAS, such as cancers, by reducing the exposure to these pollutants.
These chemicals pose a significant threat because of their persistence in the environment despite being a cause for various health issues including low birth weight, liver disease and different types of cancers. While PFAS can be found in everyday products like nonstick pans and waterproof clothing, the federal government took a major step by placing strict limits on PFAS in drinking water to mitigate their effects.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that with the implementation of the new rule will cost around $1.5 billion annually; however, it will yield substantial long-term benefits which has the possibility to prevent nearly 10,000 deaths over time and reduce illness. The rule set stern limits in two types of PFAS, PFOA and PFOS, only allowing four parts of the pollutant per trillion parts of water. Three other chemicals have been subjected to 10 parts per trillion.
The significance of the regulation is more than just immediate health benefits. Instead, it represents an effort to address the long term environmental and health crisis. Water providers will now be required to test for the chemicals and inform the public of its level and if it exceeds the regulation limit, so along with the strict regulation instated, there is also a sense of transparency between providers and consumers.
However, the implementation of this policy comes with challenges. Water utilities, particularly in smaller communities, have shown concerns about the cost associated in installing treatment systems to comply with the regulation. So legal challenges and potential additional funding can complicate the process.
Despite the challenges, The EPA’s action towards the chemical regulation signifies a commitment to prioritize peoples and the environment's health. By addressing the problem of PFAS in drinking water and setting limits , the United States government is taking a proactive step to ensure clean water for its people. However, this policy would not be in effect without the efforts of advocates, campaigners and health experts who have spoken out on the issue. While challenges remain, this leap is a crucial stepping block towards securing a healthier future.
