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.
Mariah Carey turns heads in a dramatic gold floor
The Rural Girls Chasing Goals on Football Pitches
Improved Logistics Spur Global Market in 'Double 11' Shopping Festival
UN Security Council strongly condemns terrorist attack in Russia
Jimmy Carr sparks speculation he may have become a father for the second time
Xiaohe Township in C China Makes Great Efforts to Promote Local Artists
US Senate passes funding package after missing deadline to avert partial gov't shutdown
Arizona State hit with NCAA sanctions for improper football recruiting visits during pandemic
China, Germany financial cooperation yields fruitful results