PFAS: Toxic Chemicals Lurking in Your Drinking Water

by Rosa June 10, 2024

written by Rosa June 10, 2024

PFAS: Toxic Chemicals in Drinking Water

What are PFAS?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in a wide range of products for decades, including food wrappers, sunscreen, nonstick cookware, makeup, smartphones, flame-retardant equipment, and fire-fighting foam. PFAS are known for their resistance to heat, water, grease, and stains.

Health Risks of PFAS

Recent research has shown that PFAS are more dangerous to human health than previously thought. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a variety of serious health issues, including cancer, low birth weights, and weakened immune systems.

PFAS in Drinking Water

PFAS are commonly found in drinking water across the United States. It is estimated that more than 200 million Americans may be drinking water that is contaminated with PFAS.

EPA Health Advisories

In response to the growing concerns about PFAS, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new health advisories for two of the most widely used PFAS: PFOS and PFOA. The EPA has slashed the limits for PFOS and PFOA in drinking water to 0.02 parts per trillion and 0.004 parts per trillion, respectively.

The EPA has also recommended safe drinking water limits for substances that are considered replacements for PFOA and PFOS. For GenX chemicals, the EPA recommends levels of 10 parts per trillion or below. For PFBS, the limit is 2,000 parts per trillion.

Reactions to EPA Advisories

Reactions to the EPA’s announcement were mixed. Some advocates say the agency didn’t go far enough and should regulate PFAS as a whole (more than 9,000 chemicals fall under the PFAS chemical umbrella), while others complained that the new advisories were premature and would only cause confusion.

EPA Actions

The EPA is not currently enforcing or regulating the new health advisories. However, the agency may impose mandatory standards for some PFAS in the fall, which would require municipal utilities to remove the substances from drinking water. The EPA has also announced that it is making $1 billion worth of grants available to help communities reduce PFAS in their drinking water.

Steps to Reduce Exposure

Individuals who are concerned about PFAS should take steps to limit their own exposure. Some ways to reduce exposure include:

Installing a water filter
Finding other water sources for ingestion
Avoiding products that contain PFAS

Additional Resources

EPA: https://www.epa.gov/pfas
Natural Resources Defense Council: https://www.nrdc.org/stories/pfas-everything-you-need-know
Environmental Working Group: https://www.ewg.org/pfas/

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.