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The United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) issued a December 4th news release stating that it is initiating a “cross-agency effort” to address per and polyfluoroalkyl Substances (“PFAS”).
The announcement identifies a number of actions that EPA will undertake as part of this effort.
EPA describes PFAS as a diverse group of compounds resistant to heat, water, and oil. The compounds can be persistent in the environment and resist degradation. The compounds have been used in various industrial applications and consumer products.
EPA identifies the following actions it will undertake:
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Identify a set of near-term actions that EPA will take to help support local communities.
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Enhance coordination with states, tribes and federal partners to provide communities with critical information and tools to address PFAS.
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Increase ongoing research efforts to identify new methods for measuring PFAS and filling data gaps.
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Expand proactive communications efforts with states, tribes, partners and the American public about PFAS and their health effects.
The agency’s water and research offices are stated to be leading these activities. However, they are expected to draw expertise from agency technical personnel in other areas such as air, chemicals, land, research, etc.
A copy of the EPA news release can be downloaded here.
