Scientists recently discovered the cause of worsening “forever chemical” pollution in North Carolina’s waterways.
They found that the chemicals, known as PFAS, came from a textile manufacturing plant that was releasing forms of PFAS that were not included in regular monitoring protocols.
What happened?
The scientists conducted tests in a Duke University laboratory and published the results in the journal Environmental Science and Technology Letters.
The textile mill released previously undetected quantities of PFAS and PFAS precursors into the local sewer system. Although the company does not release well-known chemicals such as PFOS or PFOA, it does release insoluble nanoparticles into the environment.
Researchers detected disturbingly high levels of these PFAS precursors — about three million times the EPA limit.
“After converting all available PFAS precursors into measurable PFAS forms, the levels of PFAS in a textile manufacturer’s wastewater jumped 50,000 to 80,000 percent,” said lead researcher Patrick Faught. “When I saw the results, I jumped out of my chair. It was the most striking result I had ever seen in the lab.”
Why is PFAS exposure a problem?
Disclosures of PFAS contamination are concerning because of the effects of these chemicals on human health.
PFAS easily enter people’s bloodstream and remain in our bodies and environment indefinitely. Studies have linked PFAS to a variety of health conditions, including weakened immune systems, reduced fertility and increased infections.
When PFAS leak into water systems, they can contaminate drinking water sources and the food we eat. Toxic chemicals in drinking water often go unnoticed for long periods of time, affecting people’s health unknowingly.
What steps are being taken to prevent the spread of permanent chemicals?
This investigation highlights the need for expanded PFAS testing and demonstrates the need for communities to prevent toxic chemicals from entering their water. Identifying the sources of PFAS is critical to stopping companies from polluting the planet and encouraging municipalities to ensure proper testing and regulation.
PFAS are a often invisible form of pollution that is becoming a global public health disaster. As a concerned citizen, you can help raise public awareness of this issue by sharing scientific reports like this.
You can also reduce your own PFAS exposure by minimizing your contact with plastics and household chemicals. Reducing the use of plastic in our daily lives and switching to natural cleaning products are steps towards a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
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