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.
An appeals court dismisses charges against a Michigan election worker who downloaded a voter list
Mallorca probing another racial
China further streamlines mobile payments for foreigners
American Express profits jump 34%, helped by jump in new customers, higher spending
How China's rest stations for outdoor workers create prospects for new employment forms
Sudan: Aid groups warn of mass death from hunger
Stefan Frei makes 300th regular season appearance for Sounders in 0
BP defeated thousands of suits by sick Gulf spill cleanup workers. But not one by a boat captain
Jennie Garth recalls the valuable lessons she learned from her late co
Republican Wisconsin Senate candidate says he doesn't oppose elderly people voting
Rod Stewart, 79, is joined by his son Aiden, 13, while cheering on his beloved Celtic during their 3