Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals”, are synthetic chemicals that do not occur naturally. They are used in a variety of household products such as non-stick cookware, cosmetics, water resistant clothing, paint, personal care products, fast food packaging, pesticides, stain resistant furniture, and microwave popcorn bags. PFAS have been linked to potential adverse health effects for humans.
On April 10, 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for PFAS.
In September 2024, the EPA finalized Recommended Aquatic Life Criteria and Benchmarks for Select PFAS.
The EPA’s criteria and benchmarks are not regulatory. States and authorized Tribes can establish water quality criteria based on the EPA’s recommended criteria and benchmarks, modify these recommended criteria to reflect site-specific conditions, or develop criteria using other scientifically defensible methods. This includes monitoring effluent, influent, and biosolids at least quarterly using draft method 1633 (for 40 PFAS compounds) and method 1621 (for adsorbable organic fluorine). This also includes updating industrial users to require quarterly monitoring, developing best management practices, and reducing PFAS in biosolids.
On May 8, 2024, the EPA designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Entities must immediately report PFOA and PFOS releases that are greater than one pound within a 24-hour period. Landfill leachate may be regulated for PFAS in the future. EPA's Plan 15 announced that after collecting and analyzing data (described in the Plan) on PFAS found in landfill leachate, the EPA determined that revisions to the ELGs for the Landfills Category (40 CFR part 445) are warranted.
Plummer is developing a roadmap that encompasses an evaluation of PFAS regulations, investigations of existing PFAS detection in the client’s service area and their transport pathways, as well as recommendations for managing the challenges stemming from elevated PFAS levels. Through a holistic assessment of water, wastewater, and solid waste systems, this project aims to guide the client’s decisions and investments over the next 5-10 years.
Plummer has coordinated with GAC and Ion Exchange (IX) vendors to select pilot systems for the removal of PFAS in drinking water sources.
Team members recommended piloting systems and designed the small-scale setup to facilitate ongoing piloting, which has successfully demonstrated treatment of PFAS. Plummer coordinated with pilot vendors to understand the lifecycle cost of both technologies and form a recommendation for full-scale treatment.
Plummer is equipped with valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities associated with various PFAS treatment technologies, and we apply these insights to determine the most effective PFAS treatment for our clients.
The EPA has identified three (3) Best Available Technologies for PFAS treatment including GAC, IX, and NF/RO. Plummer has experience designing full scale systems.
We can also help clients evaluate, test, and implement novel and emerging technologies.
We design solutions for the world's greatest water and telecommunications challenges. We are ready to take on issues you face today so you are better positioned for tomorrow.
