The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 9 Toxic “Forever Chemicals” The move would allow states to mandate cleanup if the substance is released as a “hazardous component” under the nation’s law to clean up ongoing pollution.
As part of an effort to limit pollution caused by a class of toxic substances, also known as PFAS, New Mexico regulated permit Emissions from Cannon Air Force Base in 2018.
The army pushed back Lawsuit in 2019 He said these chemicals cannot be included in the permit because they are not regulated at the federal level.
but EPA’s proposal This week, New Mexico’s efforts will not only align with federal regulators, but will also have implications beyond the state and military for other states and private companies that release PFAS.
EPA’s press release states that the update “ensures that EPA’s regulations clearly reflect the authority of EPA and permitting states to require the cleanup of any materials contemplated by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).” It is something that will be done.” PFAS, which can pose a significant hazard in licensed facilities. ”
PFAS are used in military firefighting foam as well as a variety of nonstick and waterproof products, including clothing, cosmetics, and cookware.
These have been linked to health problems such as prostate, kidney, and testicular cancer, as well as decreased fertility, weakened immunity, and high cholesterol.
A federal investigation estimates that their blood is in their veins. 97 percent of Americansand another study estimates that they are present in 45 percent of tap water in the United States.
These are called “eternal chemicals” because they do not break down and tend to remain and accumulate in nature.
Scott Faber, senior vice president for government affairs at the Environmental Working Group, said the EPA’s proposal “brings us one step closer to ensuring that PFAS waste is disposed of in a way that does not end up returning to the environment.”
He added: “Countries will have new powers to order remedial action if there is a release that poses an imminent danger.”
This is not the first time the EPA has labeled PFAS “hazardous.” In 2022, it proposed declaring two PFAS as hazardous under separate legislation that would also allow for the cleanup of sites with past contamination, rather than ongoing contamination.
Additionally, the Biden administration is proposing nationwide drinking water restrictions for some substances.
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