TFAs are here forever. Short term risks seem minimal. The long-term picture is murkier and more concerning. TFA’s extreme persistence (no natural degradation in terminal sinks like oceans or deep aquifers) means accumulation is effectively irreversible. Sticking with TFA-forming refrigerants locks in decades of accumulation for short-term gains in global warming potential (GWP).
Tag: EPA
Rethinking Forever Chemicals
While the phrase “forever chemicals” captures attention, it does not accurately reflect the chemical diversity or biochemical behavior of PFAS as a class. The phrase succeeded in raising awareness. But the future of PFAS management belongs to science-driven nuance, not oversimplification.
Smart Cities with Dumb Water
Pauli Undesser delivered an inspiring presentation at TEDx Folsom this year. In her talk “Smart Cities Can’t Afford Dumb Water,” Pauli makes a compelling case:(more…)
EPA to keep MCLs for PFOA, PFOS
EPA is announcing its intent to extend compliance deadlines for PFOA and PFOS, establish a federal exemption framework, and initiate enhanced outreach to water systems, especially in rural and small communities, through EPA’s new PFAS OUTreach Initiative (PFAS OUT).
April 2025 EPA moves to combat PFAS in ethe environment
With this approach, EPA will provide the foundation and investment necessary for a toolbox that will help states and communities dealing with PFAS contamination.
USEPA 2024 PFAS NPDWR
As water testing capabilities improve, and as more PFAS contamination circulates through the ecosystem, it is simply a matter of time until ALL UTILITIES are affected by this rule. This will significantly impact the cost of municipal water.