WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group applauds the Environmental Protection Agency for announcing today a chance for the public to provide feedback about the agency's possible future designation of at least seven "forever chemicals" as hazardous substances.
The Superfund law authorizes EPA to designate hazardous substances. The designation helps jumpstart cleanups of contaminated sites and hold polluters accountable.
The agency had proposed to designate as hazardous substances the two most notorious PFAS compounds – PFOA, formerly used by DuPont to make Teflon, and PFOS, formerly an ingredient in 3M’s Scotchgard.
The EPA's action marks the completion of another important milestone in its PFAS Strategic Roadmap. This also signals that the agency is considering actions to address PFAS pollution more broadly.
The seven chemicals listed in the EPA's notice are part of a class of thousands of chemicals. Many are found at contaminated sites and pollute the drinking water of about 200 million Americans. The EPA is also seeking public input about whether to designate groups of PFAS that have similar characteristics.
“EWG and other advocates have long supported expanding the number of PFAS designated as hazardous substances under Superfund,” said John Reeder, EWG vice president for federal affairs. “EWG commends the EPA for following through on roadmap commitments and giving hope to communities harmed by PFAS pollution.”
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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.
