A recent study found wastewater treatment plants are responsible for exposing 23 million Americans to toxic “forever chemicals” in their drinking water. These chemicals, known as PFAS, don’t break down naturally and are linked to a range of health issues, including various types of cancer and liver damage.
The study, conducted by a team of scientists in New York, included water samples from eight wastewater treatment plants across the United States.
Despite advancements in water treatment technology, the research reveals that PFAS are ending up in rivers and lakes. As a result, it is contaminating the tap water of millions of people.
While treatment processes are designed to remove impurities, the study found that PFAS can withstand filtration and enter the water supply.
The researchers estimate at least half of Americans consume contaminated tap water, as these chemicals are widespread in the environment.
PFAS are commonly used in everyday products such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, medications and fire suppressants.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently regulates six types of these chemicals. However, thousands of unregulated PFAS compounds remain in water systems, impacting an estimated 70% of the U.S. population.
“We’re identifying large amounts of chemicals that we know very little about,” said the study’s lead author.
The EPA has made some efforts to address PFAS contamination. However, experts argue current regulations are insufficient to protect public health.
PFAS accumulates in the body over time, leading to potential long-term health risks. Because these chemicals do not break down naturally, they have earned the nickname “forever chemicals.”
Additionally, the study suggests that climate change could exacerbate the problem.
Experts said widespread drought across rivers and lakes in the U.S. creates less natural water to dilute wastewater before it enters treatment plants. This could potentially increase the concentration of PFAs in drinking water.
