Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," have been a significant concern due to their persistence in the environment and harmful health impacts. Recognizing this, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced new regulations under the Biden-Harris Administration to set legally enforceable limits on specific PFAS compounds in drinking water. This move aims to significantly lower PFAS exposure across the nation, affecting roughly 100 million Americans served by public water systems.
The EPA's final ruling sets specific limits for five individual PFAS chemicals—PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals)—and introduces a Hazard Index for mixtures of four PFAS. With these measures, water utilities are mandated to ensure that PFAS levels do not exceed the set thresholds. The Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) and Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) are designed to be as close to zero as feasible, reflecting the latest advancements in water treatment technologies and health research.
For water utilities, the new rule brings significant responsibilities. Utilities have three years to complete their initial PFAS monitoring and include the findings in their Annual Water Quality reports. Any system detecting PFAS above the stipulated standards must take corrective action within five years. This includes potential measures like enhancing filtration systems or finding alternative water sources.
The estimated annual cost for compliance is around $1.5 billion. However, to ease this financial burden, the administration has allocated substantial funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. A total of $21 billion is earmarked for communities to address PFAS pollution and make general water quality improvements. This funding support is crucial for ensuring that water systems can meet the new standards without financial strain.
The health implications of reducing PFAS in drinking water are profound. By lowering the risk of serious illnesses such as cancer and liver disease, the new regulation is expected to save approximately $1.5 billion annually in health-related costs. This includes direct medical expenses and indirect costs like lost income due to illness. The broader impact on public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children, is invaluable.
Implementing the new PFAS regulations will be challenging, particularly for small, disadvantaged, and rural communities. However, the EPA provides extensive technical assistance and funding options to help these water systems meet the new standards. Water utilities are encouraged to leverage these resources to not only comply with the new regulations but also to improve their overall water quality management practices.
The EPA's stringent PFAS regulations represent a critical step towards ensuring safer drinking water for all Americans. For water utilities, the transition involves substantial monitoring and infrastructure changes, supported by significant federal funding. By adhering to these new standards, utilities will not only comply with federal regulations but also significantly enhance public health, demonstrating a commitment to long-term environmental and health stewardship.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," are a group of man-made chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and potential harmful effects on human health. They are a concern because they do not break down and can accumulate over time, leading to significant environmental and health issues, including increased risks of cancer and liver disease.
The EPA has set Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) and Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for five individual PFAS chemicals—PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals). These levels are designed to be as close to zero as technically feasible, based on the latest water treatment technologies and health research.
Water utilities have three years to complete initial PFAS monitoring and must report the findings in their Annual Water Quality reports. If PFAS levels exceed the stipulated standards, utilities are required to take corrective action within five years. This might include improving filtration systems or sourcing alternative water supplies.
To help cover the estimated annual compliance cost of $1.5 billion, the administration has allocated $21 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding aims to assist communities in managing PFAS pollution and enhancing overall water quality, thus supporting utilities in meeting the new standards without undue financial strain.
Reducing PFAS levels in drinking water is expected to significantly lower the risk of serious health issues, such as cancer and liver disease, leading to an estimated annual saving of $1.5 billion in health-related costs. This includes both direct medical costs and indirect impacts like lost income due to illness. Overall, this regulation aims to improve public health, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children.
Jeff Biberdorf serves as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Fontus Blue. His primary focus is on empowering utility professionals with practical, technology-driven solutions and maintaining strong partnerships with utilities. He is dedicated to improving water quality and introducing technological advances in the industry. Throughout his career, he has led educational sessions on water regulations for rural water associations at the state and national level, emphasizing practical technology - driven solutions for the sector.
Fontus Blue houses a team of dedicated experts who work to ensure clean water for all. With data science and water quality expertise, we custom-tailor solutions to meet your specific water quality needs. Our proven success and commitment to optimizing water treatment empowers water utilities to make informed decisions, redefining standards for water quality and accessibility.
