Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used in various industrial and consumer products since the 1940s. Known for their durability and resistance to heat, water, and oil, PFAS have become widespread in applications such as carpet and flooring, non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, firefighting foams, and food packaging. However, their persistence in the environment and potential health risks have raised significant concerns, leading to an increasing body of research and regulatory scrutiny.
Environmental Impacts
PFAS are often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their extreme persistence in the environment. They do not break down easily and can accumulate over time in water, soil, and living organisms. PFAS contamination has been detected in water sources globally, affecting drinking water supplies and ecosystems.
Water Contamination: PFAS can seep into groundwater and surface water, leading to widespread contamination. In many regions, drinking water supplies have been found to contain PFAS levels exceeding recommended safety thresholds, necessitating costly remediation efforts. The chemicals have been found in rivers, lakes, and even in rainwater, making them a global environmental issue.
Soil and Wildlife: PFAS can also accumulate in soils, particularly near manufacturing sites or areas where firefighting foams have been used. This contamination can affect plant life and enter the food chain, impacting wildlife. Studies have shown PFAS accumulation in fish, birds, and other animals, which can lead to reproductive and developmental issues in these species.
US Regulatory Responses
In response to the growing evidence of the harmful effects of PFAS, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken steps to regulate PFAS under the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Toxic Substances Control Act.On March 13, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed the first-ever national primary drinking water standards for six PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds. Then, on April 10, 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS, establishing legally enforceable Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). For two of these chemicals the MCL was set at 4 parts per trillion while for the other four there is a limit of 1 part per trillion when these four are mixed together. This marked the first time the US government had regulated these chemicals.
How PFAS Ended Up On Your Land & In Your Water The Toxic Crisis in Northwest Georgia
Chemical Companies Made Toxic PFAS Substances
For decades, 3M, along with other large chemical manufacturers, sold PFAS compounds designed to “improve” the performance of consumer products like carpet, cookware, and clothing.
Local Carpet Manufacturers Used It
Northwest Georgia carpet manufacturers used PFAS in their manufacturing process, discharging millions of gallons of toxic “forever chemicals” into local sewers.
PFAS Enters Our Waterways
Local wastewater treatment plans couldn’t filter PFAS chemicals out – so PFAS contaminated water flowed directly into our streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes.
PFAS is Spread to Our Land
Residual biosolids with concentrated PFAS contamination were shipped out as fertilizer and spread over residential areas, farms, and private land across Northwest Georgia. Over decades, this spreading poisoned soil, crops, and livestock.
Living With Toxic Consequences
Families and farmers living on contaminated property are now dealing with dangerous levels of PFAS toxic chemicals, which are harmful to land, animals, and people. The extent of damage to water, property, and human health are just beginning to be discovered.
For years, dangerous chemicals have been silently poisoning your soil and water—now is the time to fight back and protect your family’s future.
Join our effort to help hold polluting companies accountable for contaminating our land and water with dangerous PFAS chemicals. Together, we can seek justice and help ensure a safer future for our communities.
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