On Monday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency included a category of chemicals known as PFAS in a new draft list of water contaminants.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a family of more than 4,700 man-made chemicals, and they can be found in household products, like non-stick pans, rain jackets, candy wrappers, and pizza boxes. They’re also known as “forever chemicals,” since they stick around for a very long time—including in the human body. They can also cause health problems.
The EPA is proposing to include PFAS in its list of water contaminants, and that lays the groundwork for potential regulation down the road. Read more…