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EPA Data: Millions Exposed to Toxic PFAS in Water
28 Aug
Summary
- Toxic forever chemicals detected in public water for half of Americans.
- Over 1,050 water systems exceed EPA limits for certain PFAS.
- New EPA limits allow for 4 parts per trillion yearly average.
New U.S. Environmental Protection Agency records show toxic "forever chemicals" have been detected in public drinking water systems serving at least 151 million Americans. These per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, were found in water samples collected over the past three years. Over 1,050 water systems reported average PFAS levels exceeding the EPA's new limits, affecting over 52 million people.
Municipalities now have until 2031 to meet these standards, which cap certain PFAS at a yearly average of 4 parts per trillion. Compliance may involve installing advanced filtration systems or securing new water sources. The EPA mandated most drinking water systems to test for about 30 types of forever chemicals between 2023 and 2025, with final update records expected by fall 2026.
Contamination is more prevalent in large urban systems, with airports, military bases, and factories often cited as sources. However, some small communities report significantly high concentrations. Cities like Columbia, South Carolina, and Huntington Beach, California, are among those with systems exceeding the new limits, with Columbia already engaged in litigation against PFAS manufacturers.
