The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the finalization of new drinking water standards aimed at reducing the permissible levels of certain harmful chemicals—specifically per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—in drinking water across America.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been used in commercial products since the 1950s. These chemicals are prevalent in common, everyday items such as cookware and clothing. However, emerging research has highlighted potential health impacts linked to regular and prolonged exposure to PFAS. According to studies by the Agency of Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), exposure to these chemicals can lead to liver and cholesterol problems, birth defects and cancer. The EPA has released numerous health advisories over recent years cautioning consumers about the potential side effects of PFAS, particularly those found in drinking water.
Highlighting the nation’s broader efforts to tackle this issue, President Joe Biden’s administration had laid out a plan in October 2021 to combat PFAS-induced pollution. Following this, in March 2023, the administration introduced further measures, collaborating with the EPA to propose new drinking water standards. These standards have now been cemented, following a customary notice and comment review process.
The EPA has projected that these changes will come with an annual price tag of approximately $1.5 billion USD. In the fact sheet published by the EPA, it was noted that the projected benefits outweigh the associated costs. Notably, the authority anticipates that these revised standards could “reduce tens of thousands of PFAS-attributable illnesses or deaths” and decrease PFAS exposure for approximately 100 million Americans who utilise public water supplies.
The finalized plan sets maximum contaminant levels for five individual types of PFAS. Public water systems will have five years to reduce the levels of PFAS in their supply to comply with the new standards. They are also obliged to inform the public if the detected levels of PFAS exceed the new maximum thresholds. The EPA has confirmed existing suitable systems can be employed for PFAS removal from water, thus providing water systems with a certain degree of freedom in choosing the optimal solution for their specific circumstances.
For more details, please refer to the original article at JURIST.