The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals.’
EPA is setting enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL) at 4.0 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS, individually. This standard will reduce exposure from these PFAS in drinking water to the lowest levels that are feasible for effective implementation.
For PFNA, PFHxS, and “GenX Chemicals,” EPA is setting the Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLG) and MCLs at 10 parts per trillion.
Because PFAS can often be found together in mixtures, and research shows these mixtures may have combined health impacts, EPA is also setting a Hazardous Index MCL for any mixture of two or more of the following PFAS: PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and “GenX Chemicals.” To learn more about the Hazardous Index Maximum Contaminant Level and calculating the Hazard Index, visit EPA’s Fact Sheet.
EPA is also making nearly $1 billion in newly available funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help states and territories implement PFAS testing and treatment at public water systems and to help owners of private wells address PFAS contamination. An additional $12 billion is also available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for general drinking water improvements, including addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS.
Additionally, EPA offers a nationwide Water Technical Assistance program to help small, rural, and disadvantaged communities access federal resources by working directly with water systems to identify challenges like PFAS; develop plans; build technical, managerial, and financial capacity; and apply for water infrastructure funding. Learn more about EPA’s Water Technical Assistance programs.
This final rule represents a significant step to protect public health under EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. The final rule will reduce PFAS exposure for approximately 100 million people, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious illnesses.
Capital Strategic Solutions offers comprehensive support to water utilities in managing communication about emerging contaminants like PFAS to their consumers. Recognizing the complexities and concerns associated with these substances, our services include the operation of dedicated hotlines and the monitoring of emails, providing a direct channel for addressing consumer inquiries and concerns promptly.
Additionally, we specialize in crafting clear and informative social media posts and news releases, designed to educate the public about PFAS and related health implications. By ensuring consistent and accurate communication, Capital Strategic Solutions plays a crucial role in building trust between water utilities and the communities they serve, facilitating a transparent dialogue about water safety and the measures being taken to protect public health.
For more information about Capital Strategic Solutions PFAS support offerings, email us at info@capital-strategic-solutions.com.