PFAS: US limits 'forever chemicals' in tap water for first time
Posted: Thu Apr 11, 2024 7:58 pm
PFAS: US limits 'forever chemicals' in tap water for first time
Read more here:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-68671731
PFAS are dubbed "forever chemicals" because they remain widespread in the environment due to lack of degradation
The US has imposed its first nationwide limits on several harmful chemicals found in tap water across the country.
Research suggests millions of Americans likely drink water contaminated with PFAS chemicals, which are linked to a host of health issues including cancer.
On Wednesday, officials finalised a rule that requires local governments to remove six versions of the chemicals from water systems.
The government has allocated an extra $1bn (£794m) to help cover the costs.
In a statement, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said the new rule would provide long-lasting health benefits for Americans.
"Drinking water contaminated with PFAS has plagued communities across this country for too long," said EPA administrator Michael Regan. "Today, I am proud to finalise this critical piece of our roadmap, and in doing so, save thousands of lives and help ensure our children grow up healthier."
The new regulations give local municipalities three years to monitor for the chemicals in their water systems. If harmful levels of the so-called forever chemicals are found, governments have five years to reduce the amount of PFAS in the water supply.
Read more here:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-68671731
PFAS are dubbed "forever chemicals" because they remain widespread in the environment due to lack of degradation
The US has imposed its first nationwide limits on several harmful chemicals found in tap water across the country.
Research suggests millions of Americans likely drink water contaminated with PFAS chemicals, which are linked to a host of health issues including cancer.
On Wednesday, officials finalised a rule that requires local governments to remove six versions of the chemicals from water systems.
The government has allocated an extra $1bn (£794m) to help cover the costs.
In a statement, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said the new rule would provide long-lasting health benefits for Americans.
"Drinking water contaminated with PFAS has plagued communities across this country for too long," said EPA administrator Michael Regan. "Today, I am proud to finalise this critical piece of our roadmap, and in doing so, save thousands of lives and help ensure our children grow up healthier."
The new regulations give local municipalities three years to monitor for the chemicals in their water systems. If harmful levels of the so-called forever chemicals are found, governments have five years to reduce the amount of PFAS in the water supply.