East Point tackles PFAS crisis with new water regulations

In a recent government meeting, East Point officials discussed the urgent need to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as \"forever chemicals,\" in the city's drinking water. Melissa Ettorea, the city's water resources director, presented critical information regarding new regulations set to take effect in April 2024, which mandate the removal of six specific PFAS compounds from drinking water systems.

Ettorea explained that PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been in use since the 1930s, primarily in products such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams. These substances are pervasive in the environment, contaminating air, soil, and water, and pose significant health risks, including thyroid disease, liver damage, and various cancers.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a maximum contaminant level of 4 parts per trillion for one of the PFAS compounds, PFOA, and is monitoring only 180 of the thousands of PFAS chemicals in existence. The city is currently engaged in source tracing to identify industries contributing to PFAS contamination in its water supply.

Ettorea emphasized the importance of compliance with the new regulations, stating that East Point has until 2029 to implement solutions if PFAS are detected above the allowable levels. The city is actively seeking federal funding to retrofit its water treatment plant, with an estimated cost of $2 million for necessary upgrades. Officials expressed optimism about securing financial support, citing previous successful funding applications.

The meeting highlighted the broader national implications of PFAS contamination, with many cities facing similar challenges. Local leaders underscored the importance of community awareness and encouraged residents to limit their use of PFAS-containing products. As the city prepares for extensive testing and potential remediation efforts, officials are committed to keeping the public informed through educational campaigns and community meetings.