The February PFAS Newsletter brings crucial updates from across North America. This month, Canada is taking proactive steps to regulate PFAS in biosolids used in fertilizers while The City of North Bay prepares for extensive PFAS remediation. In the United States, an Indiana bill aimed at redefining PFAS chemicals appears to have stalled, raising concerns about public health and safety. With forever chemical headlines worldwide, the PFAS testing market is projected to grow, while W.L. Gore & Associates transitions away from PFAS in outdoor clothing amid pollution concerns. Click below to read through our February edition of the PFAS Newsletter for more information and regulatory updates!
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Global
The global PFAS testing market, as projected by ResearchAndMarkets.com, is anticipated to reach USD 121 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 14% from USD 63 million in 2023. This growth is attributed to increased adoption of analytical techniques in environmental and food testing. However, the market is hindered by the lack of approved laboratory methods for PFAS testing beyond drinking water. Sample preparation products are expected to dominate the market due to their widespread use in detecting low-level analytes in complex sample matrices. LC-MS-MS is forecasted to be the leading technique, offering simple and rapid sample analysis with minimal preparation.
Canada
Hold the PFAS, please: Keeping forever chemicals out of the food chain in Canada
Canada is making bold strides in managing PFAS contamination. With regulatory initiatives targeting PFAS in biosolids used in fertilizers, Canada is taking proactive steps to safeguard its citizens and the environment from the harmful effects of PFAS exposure.
Son of retired Cambridge, Ont. firefighter inspired to create chemical-free gear
In a heartwarming tale of innovation spurred by familial concern, Drew Davidson, a young engineer, has embarked on a mission to revolutionize firefighter gear. Motivated by his mother’s decades-long exposure to toxic firefighting gear, Davidson aims to develop PFAS-free alternatives, ensuring the safety and well-being of our brave firefighters.
North Bay council to vote on cost and scope of cleaning contaminated soil at airport
The City of North Bay prepares for extensive remediation efforts at the Jack Garland Airport property, targeting the pervasive presence of PFAS contamination stemming from historical firefighter training activities. With a proposed $20 million agreement, predominantly funded by the Department of National Defence, the cleanup project entails soil removal, groundwater treatment, and preventive measures to mitigate further environmental impact. This initiative reflects a concerted effort to address PFAS-related health concerns, demonstrating a commitment to community safety and environmental stewardship amidst ongoing monitoring and regulatory compliance efforts.
United States
Amid pollution investigation, maker of Gore-Tex cuts PFAS from outdoor clothing
In 2014, W.L. Gore & Associates stopped using the harmful chemical PFOA in its Gore-Tex products, responding to federal pressure to phase out PFAS compounds. Now, they’ve replaced their PFAS-based membrane with a polyethylene alternative called ePE. This shift, prompted by environmental concerns and contamination at manufacturing sites, reflects a broader industry trend towards eco-friendly technologies. Though the new membrane doesn’t replicate all the properties of the old one, it signifies a significant step in reducing the environmental impact of outdoor apparel, aligning with a 2017 agreement with Greenpeace to transition away from PFAS.
PFAS bans gain momentum: 35 states weighing 450 new bills
Safer States, an alliance of environmental health organizations, anticipates a surge in state legislation across the US in 2024, with at least 35 states introducing about 450 bills aimed at addressing toxic chemicals and plastics. Banning PFAS emerges as a dominant theme, following EU efforts, while key areas of focus include combating PFAS contamination, plastics pollution, and restricting hazardous chemicals in cosmetics. States are also exploring ways to reduce plastic use overall and incentivize reuse. Despite progress, some PFAS manufacturers seek to alter scientific definitions to continue using these chemicals, while retailers increasingly adopt policies to eliminate PFAS and toxic plastics from their products.
EPA Proposes Two PFAS-Related Rules Under RCRA. More May Be on the Way
On Feb. 8, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) released two proposed rules addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”). One proposed rule lists nine PFAS as hazardous constituents under RCRA. The other proposed rule changes the regulatory definition of “hazardous waste” for the purposes of RCRA’s Corrective Action Program.
California
California lawmaker introduces bill to end non-essential uses of toxic ‘forever chemicals’
This month, California Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) introduced Senate Bill 903, which would ban the sale and use of products containing the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS, unless their use is necessary.
Connecticut
Frustrated Greenwich residents say not enough being done to fix toxic PFAS chemicals in water supply
Residents of Greenwich express frustration with the town’s disjointed approach to water testing and contamination during a recent presentation on regulating toxic chemicals in the water supply. Concerns over elevated PFAS levels in private wells and at Parkway School prompt calls for a more systematic response and improved public communication. Anne Hulick, a statewide environmental watchdog, highlights PFAS health risks and ongoing legislative efforts to address contamination. Residents stress the importance of clearer communication and coordinated action to mitigate PFAS harm effectively.
Indiana
Indiana bill cutting protections from toxic PFAS chemicals appears to die in committee
House Bill 1399, aimed at redefining toxic PFAS chemicals in Indiana, appears to have stalled. Senator Rick Niemeyer, chair of the Senate Environmental Affairs Committee, announced no action would be taken on the bill, concluding the committee’s 2024 session. Despite widespread recognition of PFAS hazards, the proposed bill seeks to limit regulation of these chemicals only within Indiana, sparking concerns about public health and safety. Critics argue it would prevent regulation of non-essential PFAS uses, potentially affecting products like clothing and cookware.
Maine
Studies look into exposure and mental impact of PFAS
Two doctors in Maine are conducting a comprehensive study to address the emotional toll caused by PFAS contamination in the state’s water supply, aiming to provide improved health monitoring and mental health support. Dr. Rachel Criswell and Dr. Abby Fleisch are leading a study involving 150 patients to analyze the mental health impact and exposure pathways of PFAS, with blood serum samples being sent to a CDC lab for analysis.
Montana
Forever chemicals detected in Kalispell water, leading to surprise and action
In recent tests, the Environmental Protection Agency detected cancer-linked PFAS contaminants in Kalispell’s drinking water. It’s among the first detections of the chemicals in Montana’s public water supplies, with one well in the city recording contaminants at 330 times current EPA health advisory levels.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin lawmakers OK bill to tackle forever chemicals pollution, but governor isn’t on board
The Wisconsin state Assembly passed a bill earlier this month that would unlock $125 million to help municipalities and landowners cope with pollution from so-called forever chemicals. But Gov. Tony Evers isn’t on board. The Senate passed the Republican-authored legislation in November. The Assembly followed suit with a 61-35 vote on Thursday, the chamber’s last floor period of the two-year legislative session.
