The federal government is taking several actions to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), according to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin.
Also known as “forever chemicals” because they take so long to break down, PFAS substances have been found in water, air, and soil, and have been detected in humans and animals.
“There are thousands of PFAS chemicals, and they are found in many different consumer, commercial, and industrial products,” the EPA states on its website. “This makes it challenging to study and assess the potential human health and environmental risks.”
The new actions announced on April 29 are centered around three principles: “strengthening the science, fulfilling statutory obligations and enhancing communication, and building partnerships.”…