The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a significant step in safeguarding public health by imposing the first-ever federal limits on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in public drinking water. These chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment, have been linked to various health risks, including cancer.

The new rules mandate that public water systems monitor and disclose PFAS levels in drinking water, with a requirement for up to 10% of systems to lower PFAS levels. Specifically, the EPA will cap levels of two commonly used PFAS types, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), at four parts per trillion, with the ultimate goal of phasing them out entirely.

This regulatory action comes in response to growing concerns about the widespread presence of PFAS in consumer products, firefighting foam, and industrial processes, as well as their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment.

The urgency of addressing PFAS contamination is underscored by the slow degradation rate of other PFAS types, such as perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS). Holding polluters accountable for their role in contaminating water sources is essential to ensuring safe and clean drinking water for all.

To learn more about the EPA’s decision and its implications for Winter Springs and communities nationwide, read the full article here.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and together, let’s protect our community’s health and well-being.