The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized limits on certain PFAS chemicals in drinking water. These limits are expected to reduce exposure for 100 million people and prevent nearly 10,000 deaths and tens of thousands of severe illnesses in the coming decades. PFAS chemicals are dangerous as they can accumulate in the body over time, even in small amounts. The regulation represents a significant step in protecting public health and ensuring safer drinking water. This new rule, which sets limits on several common types of PFAS, is the first nationwide limit imposed on these chemicals by water providers.
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are chemicals that have been widely used for various purposes. They are resistant to breakdown, which means they persist in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. The harmful effects of PFAS on human health include kidney disease, low birth weight, high cholesterol, and certain cancers. The EPA has set limits for two common types of PFAS, PFOA and PFOS, at 4 parts per trillion in drinking water. The new rule also includes limits for other types of PFAS and requires water providers to test for PFAS and inform the public of any levels above the set limits.
Environmental and public health groups have praised the new rule for setting limits on PFAS at very low levels and for addressing a source of PFAS contamination that is relatively easier to treat. While water providers have raised concerns about the financial burden of implementing the new rule, they acknowledge that there are funds available from infrastructure laws and court settlements to help cover the costs. However, they argue that the health benefits of the rule may not justify the expenses, especially in cases of low PFAS concentrations, and that smaller communities with fewer resources may struggle to comply with the new mandates.
The EPA estimates that 6% to 10% of water systems will have levels of PFAS above the new limits, leading to the need for treatment facilities to be installed. Water providers are concerned about the practical challenges of finding enough experts and materials to remove PFAS from drinking water. There are also concerns that consumers may lose trust in tap water if they hear about high levels of PFAS, leading to further complications in ensuring safe drinking water. The EPA has cited significant health benefits as a result of the new rule, but water providers are concerned about the potential negative impacts on small communities and the increased financial burden on consumers.
