You may have seen news about PFAS in the past few weeks and wondered what it is or how it can impact you and your family. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, broadly known as PFAS, are a class of manufactured chemical contaminants that have been used globally in consumer products since the 1940s. Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set a Maximum Contamination Limit (MCL), that puts an enforceable limit on the amount of PFAS allowed in our drinking water. These MCL are guided by safe consumption levels and are designed to hold water utility companies responsible for the contamination in their water.
We believe every South Carolinian deserves safe, clean, drinking water. That’s why we advocated in 2021 for legislation for South Carolina to set its own limit for this type of contamination in our drinking water. We are encouraged by the EPA’s new rule, and now it’s up to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Services (DHEC) to help our water utilities put it into action over the next 5 years.
We know that standing idly by would have major consequences. PFAS is known to be harmful to human health. Exposure to PFAS, like from drinking contaminated water, is linked to health impacts such as decreased fertility, developmental effects, and an increased risk of cancer.
Understanding PFAS contamination can be tricky, if you want to learn more we recommend the EPA’s comprehensive PFAS webpage which contains the most up-to-date and scientifically sound information. The EPA also has a page dedicated to steps you can take to reduce your potential exposure to PFAS.
Fully addressing PFAS contamination is a complex problem that is going to require a multipronged solution. Ensuring everyone has access to safe drinking water is the first step.
We will keep you posted on any updates and ways you can get involved. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email at action@scccl.org.