US proposes limits on cancer-causing 'forever chemicals' in drinking water

The plan would limit the levels of toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS to the lowest levels that tests can detect. Polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a group of widespread toxic compounds that do not break down in the environment, can accumulate permanently in the body, and cause a variety of health problems, including kidney cancer.

My proposal to limit the use of carcinogenic chemicals in drinking water picture 1 — Research on drinking water and PFAS chemicals at the EPA's Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response. Photo: AP

Since the 1940s, PFAS chemicals have been used in consumer and industrial products, including nonstick pans, food packaging and firefighting foam.

Science has shown that long-term exposure to PFAS poses significant health risks. Radhika Fox, assistant administrator for the EPA, called the new proposal a “transformational change” to improve the safety of drinking water in the United States. The EPA estimates that the rule could reduce PFAS exposure for nearly 100 million Americans, while reducing rates of cancer, heart attacks, and birth complications.

In recent years, as research on the prevalence and hazards of PFAS chemicals has increased, public concern about the issue has also increased significantly.

But so far, only a handful of states in the US have enacted regulations on PFAS, and none have set limits as strict as what the EPA is proposing.

The proposal would set strict limits on two common PFAS compounds, PFOA and PFOS, at 4 parts per trillion—the lowest measurable level. In addition, the EPA would regulate the combined amounts of four other PFAS. Water suppliers would also be required to monitor and manage PFAS in their products.

The proposal would also regulate other PFAS like GenX Chemicals — a chemical that manufacturers use as a replacement as PFOA and PFOS are phased out of consumer products.

The Association of Drinking Water Managers called the proposal “a step in the right direction,” but said compliance is a major challenge. The EPA wants water providers to test, notify the public when they find excessive levels of PFAS, and remove the chemicals from drinking water.

The EPA said the proposal would protect everyone, including vulnerable populations, and reduce illness on a large scale. EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the proposal could prevent tens of thousands of illnesses linked to PFAS, “and marks an important step toward protecting all communities from these dangerous contaminants.”

The EPA recently provided $2 billion to states to help cover the costs of removing contaminants like PFAS from drinking water, and is expected to provide billions more in support in the coming years.

The agency is also providing technical assistance to smaller communities to install and upgrade water treatment systems under the 2021 infrastructure law. However, installing such equipment would be costly for small towns with few resources.

Hoai Phuong (according to AP)

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