Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) continue to be a hot topic in environmental and health news. These “forever chemicals” do not break down easily and are linked to serious health risks, including cancer, immune system damage, and developmental issues.
As concerns about their potential health risks grow, here are five important PFAS updates from August 2024 that you can’t ignore. These updates impact regulations, health findings, and new technologies to combat PFAS exposure.
#1. New Technology to Destroy PFAS
In a breakthrough discovery, University of British Columbia researchers have developed a new technology capable of destroying PFAS in water. This marks a major step forward in dealing with these chemicals.
The process includes an activated carbon filter and a proprietary, patented catalyst trapping the chemicals in a single integrated system. It then disintegrates the chemicals into non-toxic residue on the filter material. This tech also leverages UV light but requires less light than other water treatment options. Moreover, scientists hypothesize that this approach can eliminate as much as 90% of forever chemicals in water in under 200 minutes.
UBC News reveals that this technique is the only method that can adsorb and destroy the chemicals. All the existing solutions only do one or the other. This technology could revolutionize the way industries handle contaminated water and soil. In addition, this tech utilizes organic waste, making it more economical and sustainable compared to current solutions.
#2. Massachusetts and Connecticut Ban PFAS in Firefighter Gear
To protect first responders, Massachusetts and Connecticut recently passed legislation banning the use of PFAS in firefighter safety gear. According to TorHoerman Law, firefighters are at particular risk for PFAS exposure due to firefighting foam and protective equipment usage containing these chemicals. Over time, this exposure increases the risk of serious health issues, including cancer.
The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) reckons this cancer caused over 65% of firefighter deaths between 2002 and 2019. However, according to Rich Mackinnon, president of the Professional Firefighters Association of Massachusetts, this new move will protect future generations of firefighters. The new laws aim to phase out the PFAS-based firefighting gear in Massachusetts and Connecticut by 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Moreover, the Guardian reports that Massachusetts also mandates turnout gear manufacturers to warn buyers of PFAS-containing products in writing. The broader implications of these bans may lead to similar changes in other states and industries, signaling a shift away from PFAS-containing materials. These legislations come as a response to growing concerns about firefighter foam cancer. It is a term used to describe the increased cancer risk associated with long-term exposure to PFAS-containing firefighting foams.
Researchers believe that many firefighters have developed various types of cancer, including testicular, kidney, and prostate cancer. These illnesses have been linked to their occupational exposure to these harmful chemicals. The ban on PFAS in firefighter gear is crucial to protect first responders from unnecessary health risks.
#3. PFAS Found in Wisconsin Residents’ Blood
A recent study revealed that concerning levels of PFAS were found in the bloodstreams of Wisconsin residents. A University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health study detected varying concentrations of these chemicals in participants statewide. This discovery underscores the growing public health crisis surrounding PFAS exposure.
Researchers examined several factors and noticed that race, income, and even diet influenced PFAS levels in Wisconsinites. Older adults, males, white residents with higher incomes, and fish-consuming residents, exhibited higher PFAS values. Eau Claire, in particular, has been severely affected by PFAS poisoning, as over 50% of the city’s wells were decommissioned after 2021. However, in early August, News 18 reported that the city will welcome a new PFAS removal facility, worth $20 million.
People concerned about their PFAS levels can explore testing options and look into filtration systems to reduce PFAS levels in water supplies. Understanding the source of exposure is crucial in mitigating the impact of these forever chemicals.
#4. WHO to Overhaul PFAS Drinking Water Guidelines
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that it plans to overhaul its guidelines on PFAS in drinking water. The Guardian states that the decision comes after allegations of weak regulations and possible corruption surrounding earlier guidelines. PFAS contamination in water supplies has become a worldwide issue, and the need for stricter, evidence-based guidelines is critical.
Betsy Southerland, EPA’s former water division manager, reveals that WHO disregarded all PFAS-related human findings. Moreover, the organization also claimed that most animal studies were inconclusive. Furthermore, she adds that the WHO developed its guidelines based on technological data reviews, but again, snubbed the majority of those studies. The upcoming revisions could have a significant impact on global and U.S. standards, prompting tighter regulations and more rigorous testing of drinking water.
For Americans, this means that local and federal authorities will likely need to adjust their standards per the new WHO recommendations. As PFAS contamination becomes more widespread, ensuring safe drinking water is a top priority for public health.
#5. PFAS Contamination at Naval Sites
PFAS contamination at military sites continues to be a pressing issue. A non-functional fire suppression system at the former Brunswick Naval Air Station spilled over 1,500 gallons of PFAS-based firefighting foam.
The naval site was officially closed in 2011. However, large hangers are mandated to employ automatic fire control systems. The Maine Regional Redevelopment Authority and Brunswick Executive Airport officers received an electronic notification of the malfunctioning system in Hangar 4. A fireman had to maneuver through the foam and water to manually seal the four wall-attached cannons meant to deploy to contain fires.
According to the Associated Press, the malfunction nearly emptied the hangar’s two foam tanks’ materials. This included over 1,500 gallons of foam and 60,000 gallons of water. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection supervised the remediation operation, whereas, Clean Harbors of South Portland provided extraction trailers, restraining booms, and tanks.
People Also Ask
Q1. Are there any safe alternatives to PFAS for firefighting foam?
Yes, there are PFAS-free firefighting foam alternatives available. These include protein-based foams, synthetic detergent foams, and fluorine-free foams. While these alternatives may not be as effective in all situations, they’re much safer for human health and the environment. Many fire departments are transitioning to these options.
Q2. How long does PFAS stay in the human body?
PFAS can remain in your body for years. Different types have varying “half-lives”— the time it takes for levels to drop by half. For example, PFOA’s half-life is about 2.1–10.1 years, while PFOS is around 3.3–27 years. Moreover, PFHxS requires 4.7–35 years, whereas PFNA needs 2.5–4.3 years.
Q3. How does PFAS affect wildlife and ecosystems?
PFAS can accumulate in plants and animals, disrupting entire ecosystems. They’ve been found in fish, birds, and even polar bears. These chemicals can impact wildlife’s growth, reproduction, and immune function. In some cases, they’ve led to population declines in certain species, highlighting the far-reaching impact of PFAS contamination.
These updates highlight the ongoing challenges and progress in dealing with PFAS contamination. From technological breakthroughs to policy changes, efforts are being made to address the PFAS problem on multiple fronts.
As research continues and awareness grows, it’s crucial to stay informed about PFAS developments. These updates impact not just the environment, but potentially your health and your community. Keep an eye on local PFAS news, support research efforts, and consider ways to reduce your daily exposure to these chemicals. By staying informed and engaged, you can play a part in addressing this important environmental and health issue.
