We invented it. Why is PFAS in our water?
What is PFAS? Why is PFAS problematic in Coastal Delaware?
Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), sometimes called ‘forever chemicals,’ include a long, diverse list of chemicals used in:
Grease-resistant paper, fast food containers/wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, and candy wrappers
• Nonstick cookware
• Stain-resistant coatings used on carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics
• Water-resistant clothing
• Cleaning products
• Personal care products (shampoo, dental floss), cosmetics
• Paints, varnishes, and sealants
The references, below, include details of how PFAS products originated in the 1940s, health implications of PFAS understood by Manufacturers in 1970 and information suppressed for several years but widely available by 1990. Neither government or Manufacturers responded constructively to the public health implications and now Coastal Delaware has PFAS related chemicals widely distributed in soil and water. The Public Water supply in Delaware is monitored for PFAS but not filtered for PFAS chemicals.
PFAS-related manufacturing may have to be stopped completely. Regulation of Industrial waste, a larger issue that includes PFAS chemicals, might transfer cost and responsibility to industry that manufactures problematic substances and prohibit industrial waste from entering public waste systems.
PFAS chemicals are a prominent issue for fertilizer manufacturers who process wastewater. Milorganite and analogous competitors grow a fungus in wastewater to manufacture fertilizer. This method reduces but does not eliminate PFAS so the method is not a long-term solution.
If you want to learn more about the politics, technology, and local importance of PFAS chemicals you will have to join the Seagrove Garden Club!
Seagrove Garden Club
References:
https://time.com/6284266/pfas-forever-chemicals-manufacturers-kept-secret/
https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained