![]() ![]() Scientists tested for 32 PFAS compounds - most of the ones detectable through available methods. Three were sampled multiple times over a three-month period, with results changing little, Smalling said. They included protected lands such as national parks residential and rural areas with no identified PFAS sources and urban centers with industry or waste sites known to generate PFAS. The samples were taken between 20 in a range of locations - mostly residences but also a few schools and offices. ![]() In contrast, the USGS report was based on samples from taps in 716 locations, including 447 that rely on public supplies and 269 using private wells. Studies of lab animals have found potential links between PFAS chemicals and some cancers, including kidney and testicular, plus issues such as high blood pressure and low birth weight.įederal and state programs typically measure exposure to pollutants such as PFAS at water treatment plants or groundwater wells that supply them, Smalling said. “We should be requiring polluters to treat their own wastes.” “We should be treating this problem where it begins, instead of putting up a stoplight after the accident," he said. A final decision is expected later this year or in 2024.īut the government hasn't prohibited companies using the chemicals from dumping them into public wastewater systems, said Scott Faber, a senior vice president of the Environmental Working Group, an advocacy organization. Environmental Protection Agency in March proposed the first federal drinking water limits on six forms of PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated substances, which remain in the human body for years and don't degrade in the environment. But the information “can be used to evaluate risk of exposure and inform decisions about whether or not you want to treat your drinking water, get it tested or get more information from your state" about the situation locally, said lead author Kelly Smalling, a research hydrologist. It builds on previous scientific findings that the chemicals are widespread, showing up in consumer products as diverse as nonstick pans, food packaging and water-resistant clothing and making their way into water supplies.īecause the USGS is a scientific research agency, the report makes no policy recommendations. Researchers described the study as the first nationwide effort to test for PFAS in tap water from private sources in addition to regulated ones. The synthetic compounds known collectively as PFAS are contaminating drinking water to varying extents in large cities and small towns - and in private wells and public systems, the U.S. faucets likely contains “forever chemicals” that may cause cancer and other health problems, according to a government study released Wednesday. (AP) - Drinking water from nearly half of U.S. ![]()
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