Escalating Regulatory Measures against PFAS: A Necessity for Health and Environment

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a family of synthetic organofluorine chemical compounds, have been widely used in household items since the 1950s. From stain-resistant fabrics to non-stick kitchenware, and from water-resistant clothing to certain types of firefighting foam, PFAS have found their way into our everyday lives. However, growing concerns about their health and environmental impacts have led to intensified regulatory measures in the United States.

The Dangers of PFAS

Studies indicate that exposure to certain PFAS may cause a variety of health effects, including developmental effects, effects on the thyroid, liver, kidneys, certain hormones, and the immune system. There is also a potential cancer risk. PFAS have been linked to increased risk of dyslipidemia, reduced infant and fetal growth, and higher rates of kidney cancer. Furthermore, communities with higher percentages of non-White or Hispanic/Latino residents and families living in poverty have been found less likely to have PFAS in their drinking water, leading to potential health disparities.

Regulatory Measures Against PFAS

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been at the forefront of efforts to tackle PFAS contamination. They have released a new method to detect 32 PFAS directly from the walls of containers made from high density polyethylene (HDPE) and have issued orders to Inhance Technologies LLC, directing it not to produce PFAS chemicals. The EPA has also removed 12 chemicals identified as PFAS from the current list of inert ingredients approved for use in nonfood pesticide products. Furthermore, they have proposed National Primary Drinking Water regulations for PFOA, PFOS, and four other PFAS.

On a state level, the Massachusetts legislature appointed the PFAS Interagency Task Force in 2020 to investigate water and ground contamination of PFAS across the Commonwealth. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey sued 13 manufacturers of PFAS chemicals used in firefighting foam for causing millions of dollars in damages to communities across the state.

The Future of PFAS

As concerns mount over the environmental and health impacts of PFAS, the push to phase these compounds out entirely is gaining momentum. Major PFAS producers such as 3M, Chemours, DuPont, and Corteva have reached billion-dollar agreements to settle claims against them. Additionally, global provider of water and wastewater treatment equipment, Ovivo Inc, has announced the acquisition of E2metrix Inc. This acquisition aims to offer an integrated solution for the destruction of PFAS in water and wastewater, using electrochemical oxidation technology, in line with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's proposed PFAS regulatory limits.

While the challenges posed by PFAS are significant, the escalating regulatory measures and the advancements in technology for the detection and destruction of these chemicals provide hope. It is important to stay informed about these issues, as they have a direct impact on our health and environment.