PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment. They have been widely used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics. Unfortunately, these chemicals are now found in water, soil, and air.
In the Mid-Atlantic region, the impact of PFAS contamination has become increasingly evident. States such as Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey are grappling with the health and environmental consequences of these toxic substances.
While federal regulations aim to address PFAS, state-specific initiatives are critical to tackling this pressing issue.
Delaware has also uncovered troubling findings. A statewide investigation revealed PFAS contamination in all 83 samples collected across 33 water bodies. According to the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, the following watersheds indicated extreme contamination levels requiring immediate attention:
This contamination affects drinking water and is disastrous for aquatic life and ecosystems. The study emphasized that PFAS levels in some areas exceeded safety thresholds, putting communities at risk. These findings underscore the urgent need for preventive measures, such as improved waste management and monitoring systems.
Maryland is one of the states taking significant steps to combat PFAS contamination. According to WHYY, a recent study identified PFAS in 200 public water systems, raising concerns about the state's drinking water safety.
Between January and March 2024, over 1,050 water bodies were analyzed to meet the state’s new guidelines enforced last year. The majority of these samples were from water systems operated by local municipalities or settlements. Brookside Village Mobile Home Park in Columbia County recorded the most contamination, with PFAS levels spanning 200 to 2,100 parts per trillion.
The top limit of the samples was over 500-fold the updated federal regulations and over 100x the revised state guidelines. Contamination levels reached concerning heights in Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery counties. Horsham and Warminster communities stand out in these counties as they contain military bases, which historically use the Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).
This contamination poses serious health risks, including potential links to cancer, liver damage, and immune system effects. Residents are calling for stricter water treatment measures and better regulatory oversight. The challenge lies in ensuring clean drinking water for communities while managing the costs associated with remediation.
While federal agencies like the EPA are introducing stricter PFAS guidelines, state-specific regulations play a vital role. For example, Toxic‑Free Future reveals that Washington State finalized stringent PFAS rules earlier this year, setting a precedent for other regions.
Under The Safer Products for Washington Act, manufacturers cannot use PFAS in apparel and cleaning merchandise. Moreover, companies should specify the use of PFAS in firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE), floor and ski waxes, footwear, gear, and automotive cleaners.
Likewise, Maryland is prosecuting W.L. Gore & Associates, a manufacturing company renowned for its water-resistant GORE-TEX clothing liners. According to The Baltimore Banner, the lawsuit claims the company knew about the dangers of PFAS and still released them into the environment. According to the lawsuit, every Gore facility has excess levels of forever chemical pollutants.
Cherry Hill and Fair Hill sites had PFAS concentrations about 200 times the mandated safe drinking water threshold. In the company’s Appleton South facility, groundwater samples contained over 1,000 parts per trillion of PFAS particulates. The Maryland Secretary of the Environment suggests businesses should do more to protect community and resident health.
Mid-Atlantic states can learn from these measures to strengthen their regulatory frameworks. A consistent, unified approach across states could lead to more effective solutions for managing PFAS contamination.
Holding manufacturers accountable for PFAS pollution is crucial. This includes those who produced AFFF, a firefighting foam containing PFAS that has been a major source of contamination. TruLaw reveals that over 10,000 lawsuits, often known as AFFF litigation, are ongoing in the US District Court in South Carolina.
These AFFF lawsuit cases aim to hold the manufacturers of this foam responsible for the damage they've caused. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is also stepping in. They recently set new limits for PFAS in drinking water. This is a big win for clean water, but it isn’t without its downsides.
The financial impact of PFAS clean-up is another growing concern. New Jersey, which has been implementing its guidelines since 2018, will now follow the federal standards. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection sent notices to over 1,170 water plants, advising them of the latest EPA directives. Under new EPA rulings, at least 362 facilities fall short of the new federal limits.
While companies have until 2029 to meet the new federal guidelines, the NJDEP suggested residents take proactive measures like installing granular activated carbon filters. This could cause financial strain to residents as they’ll invest in water filters and later pay higher water bills for the new filtering infrastructure. While federal funding may provide $9 billion for PFAS cleanup, residents must reach their pockets to cover most of the costs.
Pennsylvania is dealing with PFAS contamination in school drinking water systems. Over 30 Pennsylvania schools detected toxic chemicals exceeding the EPA standard. The Kings Highway Elementary School, Coatesville, and Central Bucks East High School, Doylestown recorded the worst numbers.
The former had 22.6 ppts and the latter 23.25 ppts PFAS chemicals. Both these figures surpass the state’s and the EPA’s cutoff. Even more concerning, officials at these schools don’t know the sources of the contamination. This issue raises alarm about the long-term health effects on children, who are more vulnerable to chemical exposure.
Local authorities are working to test and treat water supplies in schools. However, these efforts require significant funding and coordination to protect children effectively. Ensuring safe drinking water in educational institutions must remain a top priority.
Some states are taking a proactive approach to reduce PFAS exposure. New York, for instance, has announced a ban on PFAS in clothing, which will take effect in January 2025. The Public News Service reveals that the chemicals are particularly used in water-repellent, stain-resistant, and wrinkle-free clothing.
Moreover, the state intends to pass bills outlawing PFAS in household supplies, personal grooming and beauty goods, and female sanitary products. These new reforms will be reviewed in 2025. These policies could serve as a model for other Mid-Atlantic states.
Expanding these bans to include additional consumer goods, like food packaging, could further limit PFAS exposure. Collaborative efforts between states can drive more comprehensive solutions.
Not all filters work against PFAS. Systems with reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, anion exchange, and high-quality activated carbon filters are your best bets. When choosing a filter, look for NSF/ANSI 53, 58, or P473 certifications. Replace cartridges regularly for optimal protection.
Watch out for items labeled “stain-resistant” or “waterproof,” including carpets, furniture, and dental floss. Non-stick cookware manufactured before 2013, grease-resistant food packaging, and some cosmetics are other common sources to be mindful of.
You can purchase a certified home testing kit or contact your local health department for testing services. Many state environmental agencies also offer free PFAS testing programs for private wells. Professional lab analysis typically costs $300 to $600 per sample.
The Mid-Atlantic region faces a complex battle against PFAS pollution. It is at a crucial turning point in addressing PFAS contamination. The risks are far-reaching, from contaminated water supplies to school systems and ecosystems. However, with new federal regulations taking effect and increased monitoring, you can expect to see more aggressive action against these harmful chemicals.
Remember to stay engaged with local water quality issues and support initiatives that protect our drinking water resources for future generations. After all, long-term success requires consistent collaboration, public awareness, and accountability. By working together, the Mid-Atlantic can pave the way for a safer and healthier future.
