Detecting and Eliminating Forever Chemicals in Drinking Water

Forever chemicals, particularly PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are synthetic compounds that resist breaking down in the environment. Their persistence poses serious environmental risks, including bioaccumulation and contamination, which lead to adverse health outcomes such as cancer, hormone disruption, suppressed antibody response, and lower birth weight. This guide will help you understand these chemicals, their pathways into water, and the steps you can take to remove them from your water supply.

Key Points

• PFAS, also called ‘forever chemicals,’ are linked to severe health risks, such as cancer and immune system problems.

• Common sources of PFAS in water include industrial pollution, firefighting foams, and landfill runoff.

• Advanced filtration methods, like activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange, are necessary to remove PFAS and ensure water safety.

What Are Forever Chemicals in Water?

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals prized for their durability and resistance to heat, water, and oil. The strong carbon-fluorine bonds in PFAS make them difficult to break down, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” These chemicals have been used in various industries since the 1940s, finding their way into everything from non-stick cookware to firefighting foams. Their widespread use has resulted in significant contamination of water supplies worldwide. The Environmental Working Group has played a crucial role in collecting data on PFAS contamination in water systems across the United States.

Once PFAS enter the environment, they can persist for years, gradually accumulating in the water and even in human bodies. Understanding the risks and knowing how to reduce exposure is crucial to addressing this issue.

Health Hazards Linked to PFAS

Even small amounts of PFAS can lead to serious human health problems and various human health effects. These chemicals have been linked to cancers, immune dysfunction, and reproductive issues. Long-term exposure increases the risk of kidney and testicular cancers, hormonal imbalances, and reduced fertility.

Research has shown PFAS exposure can impair the immune system, potentially leading to diminished vaccine response. Additionally, thyroid disease, thyroid problems, low birth weight, and developmental issues in children are connected to PFAS contamination.

Recognizing the health dangers associated with PFAS underscores the need for awareness and proper water filtration.

Sources of PFAS Contamination in Water

PFAS contamination typically comes from industrial processes, firefighting foam use, and landfill leakage, involving various PFAS chemicals.

• Industrial Discharges: Many manufacturing sites release PFAS through wastewater, affecting nearby water sources.

• Firefighting Foams: Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), used to extinguish fires, contain high levels of PFAS. These chemicals can seep into groundwater from training sites or emergency response locations.

• Landfills and Wastewater Plants: PFAS from discarded products can leach into water sources, while many wastewater plants fail to fully filter out PFAS from treated water.

Detecting PFAS in Drinking Water

Detecting PFAS in drinking water is a crucial step in ensuring public health and safety. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a non-enforceable health advisory level for PFAS in drinking water, which is 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for the combined concentration of PFOA and PFOS. However, some states have set their own stricter limits, ranging from 2 to 20 ppt.

To detect PFAS in drinking water, laboratories use advanced analytical techniques such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). These methods can detect PFAS at very low levels, typically in the range of 1-10 ppt.

The EPA has also developed a testing method for PFAS in drinking water, known as Method 537. This method involves collecting water samples and analyzing them for 14 different PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS.

In addition to laboratory testing, there are also several field testing methods available for detecting PFAS in drinking water. These methods include portable testing kits and field-based analytical instruments, which can provide rapid results in the field.

It’s worth noting that detecting PFAS in drinking water is not a one-time task, but rather an ongoing process. Regular monitoring and testing are necessary to ensure that PFAS levels remain below safe limits and to identify any potential sources of contamination.

Regulatory Response to PFAS

Various countries are taking action to manage toxic PFAS chemicals levels in drinking water. For example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set limits on PFOA and PFOS, two types of PFAS, at 4 parts per trillion. Stricter regulations are emerging as awareness grows.

Queensland is also stepping up, with its Ambient PFAS Monitoring Program to assess and regulate PFAS levels in drinking water. These local efforts are vital in managing PFAS exposure and ensuring public safety.

How to Remove PFAS from Your Water

To effectively remove PFAS, you need advanced filtration technologies such as:

• Activated Carbon Filters: These filters can adsorb PFAS, especially granular carbon types, which have more contact time with the water.

• Reverse Osmosis Systems: These systems filter out up to 99% of PFAS by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane that blocks contaminants.

• Ion Exchange Resins: These resins exchange harmful PFAS with safer ions, removing them from the water.

Best Filtration Systems for Home Use

For home use, several filtration systems are highly effective against PFAS:

• Puretec ESR2-T5 Reverse Osmosis System: This under-sink system combines reverse osmosis and activated carbon filtration to provide pure drinking water.

• Puretec CF Series Undersink Water Filter System: This system enhances water quality by removing chlorine and other contaminants, though it's best paired with additional PFAS-specific filters for complete protection.

• Puretec RO270 Reverse Osmosis System: Capable of processing 270 liters daily, it effectively removes PFAS, ensuring your family has clean, safe water.

How to Minimize PFAS Exposure at Home

In addition to using effective water filtration, you can reduce PFAS exposure by avoiding products containing PFAS, such as non-stick cookware or water-repellent fabrics. Additionally, washing your hands after handling soil and installing high-quality water filtration systems will further reduce exposure.

Taking Action

Taking action to address PFAS contamination in drinking water requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government agencies, industry, and consumers. Here are some steps that can be taken:

1. Regulatory action: The EPA and state governments can establish stricter limits for PFAS in drinking water and enforce them through regular monitoring and testing.

2. Industry action: Manufacturers can phase out the use of PFAS in their products and replace them with safer alternatives.

3. Consumer action: Consumers can take steps to reduce their exposure to PFAS by using non-stick cookware and food packaging that is PFAS-free, and by filtering their drinking water.

4. Research and development: Scientists can continue to research the health effects of PFAS and develop new technologies for detecting and removing PFAS from drinking water.

5. Public education: Public education campaigns can raise awareness about the risks of PFAS contamination and the steps that can be taken to reduce exposure.

By taking these steps, we can work towards reducing PFAS contamination in drinking water and protecting public health.

Looking Ahead: Research and Regulation

PFAS research is ongoing, and new regulations are emerging to limit exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals. The EPA’s roadmap and international collaborations are driving efforts to reduce PFAS pollution, while technological advances are offering more solutions for treating contaminated water.

Summary

PFAS, or ‘forever chemicals,’ pose serious risks to water quality and health. By understanding their sources, health impacts, and the available filtration technologies, you can reduce your exposure. Staying informed and advocating for stronger regulations can help ensure safer drinking water for everyone.

FAQs

• What are PFAS? PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their resistance to degradation.

• How do PFAS affect health? They are linked to cancers, immune system problems, and various human health effects.

• What sources contaminate water with PFAS? Industrial waste, firefighting foams, and landfills are primary culprits.

• How can I remove PFAS from drinking water? Activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and ion exchange resins are effective methods.

• What can I do to reduce PFAS exposure at home? Avoid products with PFAS, practice good hygiene, and install reliable water filtration systems.