U.S. military takes important step towards PFAS-free firefighting foams

New rule comes after years of PFAS contamination of water supplies for millions of Americans

Health advocates praise this move while calling for transparency and requirements for the safety of new foams

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) released a revised military specification (“mil spec”) for the purchase and use of firefighting foam free of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Revisions to the mil spec were required by the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The new rule comes after years of PFAS contamination of water supplies for millions of Americans.

This new specification also impacts airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was directed by Congress to allow airports to use fluorine-free foams by October 2021 and issued a new alert today. Continue reading U.S. military takes important step towards PFAS-free firefighting foams

Locally caught freshwater fish across the United States are likely a significant source of exposure to PFOS and other perfluorinated compounds

Locally caught freshwater fish across the United States are likely a significant source of exposure to PFOS and other perfluorinated compounds – ScienceDirect Abstract Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, gained significant public and regulatory attention due to widespread contamination … Continue reading Locally caught freshwater fish across the United States are likely a significant source of exposure to PFOS and other perfluorinated compounds

PFAS One Water Risk Communication Messaging for Water Sector Professionals

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are of increasing concern to the water sector and the public. It is critical that water systems continue to be the trusted sources of information for their customers, especially regarding emerging contaminants such as PFAS. Therefore, water utilities must proactively reach out to customers; be prepared to respond to questions; and communicate clearly about all aspects of PFAS. This project provides communications materials water systems can use as they interact with customers, regulators, and other stakeholders. The materials are provided in two toolkits: one for One Water messaging and one for messaging specific to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule. Research partner: American Water Works Association. Published in 2022. Continue reading PFAS One Water Risk Communication Messaging for Water Sector Professionals