The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking a second look at the limits it set for certain PFAS chemicals in drinking water. These chemicals, often referred to as 'forever chemicals,' are a group of man-made substances that don't break down naturally in the environment. This means they can build up over time in our water, soil, and even our bodies.
Last year, the Biden administration announced national standards for these chemicals, aiming to reduce their presence in drinking water supplies across the country. However, the EPA is now revisiting these standards, raising questions about the future of PFAS regulation.
PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have been used in a wide range of products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. Because they are so persistent, they have become widespread contaminants. Exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to various health problems, including cancer, immune system issues, and developmental effects.
The EPA's decision to reconsider the limits on these chemicals has sparked debate among environmental groups, industry representatives, and public health advocates. Some argue that the original standards were too strict and would be too costly for water systems to implement. Others worry that weakening the limits could put public health at risk. The agency is expected to release more details about its plans in the coming months.
EPA Revisits Limits on PFAS 'Forever Chemicals' in Water
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reconsidering recently established national standards for certain PFAS chemicals, often called 'forever chemicals,' found in drinking water. This action comes roughly a year after the Biden administration initially set these limits. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that don't break down easily, leading to their accumulation in the environment and the human body. Concerns about their potential health effects have prompted increased scrutiny and regulatory action.
Source: Read the original article at NBC