EPA Classifies 2 Persistent Chemicals as Hazardous Substances, Qualifying for Superfund Cleanup

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a significant step in addressing the issue of forever chemicals by designating two compounds, PFOA and PFOS, as hazardous substances. These chemicals, commonly found in cookware, carpets, and firefighting foams, have been linked to serious health risks, including cancer and developmental problems in infants and children.

While the designation does not ban the chemicals outright, it does require industries and other responsible parties to report any releases of PFOA and PFOS into the environment and take action to clean up contaminated sites. The EPA’s decision comes after years of voluntary phase-outs by U.S. manufacturers, but the chemicals still persist in the environment due to their inability to degrade over time.

The EPA’s move is part of a broader effort to address the widespread contamination of PFAS chemicals, which have been used in a variety of consumer products since the 1940s. The agency also recently announced strict limits on certain PFAS in drinking water, a rule that is expected to benefit 100 million people and prevent thousands of illnesses, including cancers.

Environmental advocates have praised the EPA’s actions, noting that they will help protect millions of Americans from exposure to toxic chemicals. By holding polluters accountable for cleaning up contaminated sites, the EPA is taking a crucial step towards ensuring the health and safety of communities across the country.

Overall, the EPA’s decision to designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to address the threat posed by forever chemicals. With stricter regulations in place, industries will be required to take responsibility for the cleanup of these toxic compounds, ultimately benefiting public health and the environment.