The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a strategic roadmap to protect the public from forever chemicals. Faced with mounting pressure from consumer rights advocates, the agency issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking general input about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on April 13, 2023.
PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been used in consumer products since the 1950s. Some everyday household items like non-stick cookware, stain-resistant carpeting, and even cosmetics rely on the formula for effectiveness. But, its strong molecular bond is not readily degraded in the environment, hence the moniker “forever chemical.”
In September 2022, the EPA announced a projected regulation to designate various PFAS (and their respective byproducts) as hazardous under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). However, additional information from the public is necessary to illuminate the challenges experienced by impacted communities.
Human exposure to forever chemicals increases as PFAS leak into the soil, water, and air, poisoning wildlife and freshwater sources. For instance, in 2015, researchers reported that 97% of Americans had detectable levels of the synthetic compound in their bloodstream. Prolonged exposure to PFAS is associated with several adverse health outcomes, including altered thyroid function, reproductive challenges, and cancer.
According to Barry Breen, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management, “This is a key commitment under the Agency’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap and will provide an opportunity for a large and diverse group of stakeholders, including the public, state and local governments, Tribes, industry, businesses, environmental groups, and universities, to provide input and help EPA gather the latest science and information regarding PFAS.”
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The ANPRM officially opened for 60 days in anticipation of public comments beginning June 12, 2023. Per the agency’s website, new input regarding potentially unknown hazards in communities may extend the survey, if necessary. A collective effort to regulate forever chemicals ensures that evidenced-based solutions are available to protect the public from PFAS exposure.
Home botox parties?
A. Yes, please.
B. Nooo, thank you.
C. Umm my friend enjoys it.
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