EPA designates 2 forever chemicals as hazardous substances, eligible for Superfund cleanup
Time:2024-05-29 00:49:33 Source:opinionsViews(143)
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday designated two forever chemicals that have been used in cookware, carpets and firefighting foams as hazardous substances, an action intended to ensure quicker cleanup of the toxic compounds and require industries and others responsible for contamination to pay for its removal.
Designation as a hazardous substance under the Superfund law doesn’t ban the chemicals, known as PFOA and PFOS. But it requires that releases of the chemicals into soil or water be reported to federal, state or tribal officials if they meet or exceed certain levels. The EPA then may require cleanups to protect public health and recover costs that can reach tens of millions of dollars.
PFOA and PFOS have been voluntarily phased out by U.S. manufacturers but are still in limited use and remain in the environment because they do not degrade over time. The compounds are part of a larger cluster of forever chemicals known as PFAS that have been used since the 1940s in industry and consumer products including nonstick frying pans, water-repellent sports gear, stain-resistant rugs and cosmetics.
Previous:Powerful storms kills at least 18, injures hundreds across multiple states
Next:Katie Price's ex
You may also like
- Kyle Larson's bid to run The Double ends in disappointment after bad weather intervenes
- First unit of Maerdang Hydropower Station connected to grid
- Attacks on civilians amid Gaza conflict condemned
- Northeast China launches first cross
- Powerful storms kills at least 18, injures hundreds across multiple states
- Multiple indicators signal upward trend in Chinese economy
- Mexican embassy staff leave Ecuador after break in diplomatic ties
- Xi Focus: Xi Stresses Boosting High
- Stock market today: World shares are mostly lower after US holiday quiet