On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized limits on certain common types of PFAS chemicals in drinking water. It is the first time a
Brooke Gray prepares to take a sample while doing research on PFAS removal from water, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency lab in Cincinnati. The Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday announced its first-ever limits for several common types of PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals,” in drinking water. On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agencyin drinking water.
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals that have been around for decades and have now spread into the nation’s air, water and soil. PFAS accumulates in the body, which is why EPA set their limits for drinking water at 4 parts per trillion for two common types — PFOA and PFOS — that are phased out of manufacturing but still are present in the environment. Health experts say low doses of the chemicals can build up in the body over time, so even small amounts are a problem.
For some other types, the limit is 10 parts per trillion, and there are also limits on certain PFAS combinations. As a result of the rule, the EPA says nearly 10,000 fewer deaths will occur in the coming decades and tens of thousands of severe illnesses will be avoided.Environmental and public health groups have argued that limits should have been in place long ago, but they are generally thrilled with the announcement. They like that it sets limits for PFOA and PFOSs and that the agency did not agree with some utility groups that wanted a more lenient limit.
They’ve said the EPA’s $1.5 billion annual cost estimate is too low, water bills for consumers will go up and the health benefits of the rule aren’t big enough, especially at low PFAS concentrations, to justify all the expense.
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