Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic compounds that have raised significant concerns due to their potential health risks. These chemicals, found in various industrial processes and consumer products, do not easily break down, resulting in long-lasting contamination of water, soil, and air.
The widespread presence of PFAS, particularly in drinking water, has become an urgent public health issue, disproportionately affecting communities of color and low-income populations. According to the NIH, the U.S. boasts some of the safest drinking water supplies globally. However, certain areas still face concerns over the presence of contaminants in both public and private systems.
Recent studies highlight how socioeconomic factors, including race and income, contribute to disparities in exposure to these harmful chemicals. These studies highlight the need for policies protecting vulnerable communities from PFAS.
Proximity to Contaminated Area
Marginalized communities often find themselves living near industries, military bases, and waste sites where PFAS chemicals are heavily utilized and disposed of.
This proximity significantly increases their risk of exposure to these harmful substances. Areas such as rural, under-resourced neighborhoods frequently lack adequate zoning regulations and enforcement, making them more susceptible to contamination.
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), many of the over 11,000 active and closed landfills in the U.S. could be contaminated with PFAS. This contamination poses heightened health risks for nearby low-income communities and communities of color. Experts estimate that approximately 16,500 pounds of PFAS enter landfills annually from discarded household goods and industrial waste.
Alarmingly, about 1,760 pounds of these chemicals escape through liquid waste known as landfill leachate, contaminating groundwater and drinking water supplies. Some landfills report PFAS levels in the tens of thousands of parts per trillion (ppt). This concentration far exceeds the proposed 4 ppt limit set by the Environmental Protection Agency for drinking water.
About 13 million people live within one mile of a landfill. Studies indicate that cancer rates are more prevalent among communities residing near these sites.
Environmental Injustice
Historical practices and policies have contributed to the concentration of polluting industries, military bases, and power plants in specific areas. These areas are often predominantly inhabited by communities of color and those with lower socio-economic status.
In 2021, the NRDC found that PFAS contamination was widespread in California but disproportionately impacted already overburdened communities. Approximately 69% of state-identified disadvantaged communities had PFAS contamination in their public water systems. Nearly a quarter of these communities are facing the highest levels of contamination.
Moreover, Blavity News states that the U.S. Geological Survey reported that 45% of tap
water in the country was contaminated with PFAS. However, studies have shown that Black and Latino communities experience even higher levels of contamination.
Lack of Community Empowerment and Support
Marginalized communities often lack the resources and support networks necessary to effectively combat PFAS contamination. Many of these communities do not have access to affordable testing or information about the risks associated with PFAS exposure. Local environmental justice organizations play a crucial role in empowering residents.
For example, in Brunswick, Maine, the Brunswick Renters Organization is working to test for PFAS contamination after a significant firefighting foam spill. The organization is compiling requests for bulk orders of home test kits to create a database of contamination levels around the naval air station.
Despite these efforts, many residents, particularly marginalized groups like New Mainers and asylum-seekers, may be unaware of the ongoing contamination risks in their community.
Legal Recourse Available to Victims
Legal recourse is available for individuals and communities affected by PFAS contamination, and various lawsuits have already targeted manufacturers responsible for these chemicals. Major companies, including DuPont, its spinoff Chemours, and 3M, have faced lawsuits related to their production of PFAS.
For instance, 3M agreed in 2023 to pay at least $10 billion to water utilities across the U.S. to cover the costs of cleaning up PFAS contamination. In addition, thirty state attorneys general have filed lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers, accusing them of causing widespread environmental and public health damage.
TruLaw notes that AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) lawsuits are a critical part of this legal battle. The foam, commonly used for firefighting, contains PFAS chemicals that do not break down and are harmful to human health.
Lawsuits claim that manufacturers knowingly produced toxic foam, leading to cancer and other health issues for those exposed, including firefighters and military personnel. As per the latest AFFF lawsuit update, over 10,000 AFFF-related lawsuits have been filed. Many of these lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.
This ongoing litigation aims to hold manufacturers accountable for the harmful effects of AFFF and other PFAS products.
FAQs
How do AFFF lawsuits differ from other PFAS-related lawsuits?
AFFF lawsuits specifically target manufacturers of firefighting foam containing PFAS chemicals, alleging the foam caused cancer and other health issues. In contrast, broader PFAS-related lawsuits focus on contamination from various sources, including industrial sites and consumer products. Both seek compensation for health damages and environmental cleanup.
How do military bases contribute to PFAS contamination?
Military bases often use firefighting foams containing PFAS chemicals to suppress fuel fires. These foams can contaminate groundwater, soil, and nearby water bodies. Additionally, historical waste disposal practices at military bases may have involved the disposal of PFAS-containing materials, further contributing to contamination.
How can communities test for PFAS contamination in their water?
Communities can test for PFAS contamination in their water by using home testing kits or contacting local environmental agencies. Some organizations offer affordable testing services, and public water systems may also conduct regular testing. Collaboration with environmental justice groups can help raise awareness and facilitate testing efforts.
The disproportionate burden of PFAS exposure on marginalized communities highlights significant environmental justice issues that demand urgent attention. Systemic inequalities contribute to higher exposure rates among these populations, resulting in severe health implications that can affect generations.
Addressing this crisis requires comprehensive regulatory measures, community advocacy, and accountability from manufacturers responsible for contamination. As awareness grows about the dangers posed by “forever chemicals,” it is imperative that policymakers prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations in their responses.
