EPA designates 2 forever chemicals as hazardous substances, eligible for Superfund cleanup
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.
Related articles
Supreme Court rejects an appeal from a Canadian man once held at Guantanamo
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal by a Canadian-born former Guantanam2024-05-21- (Xinhua) 13:46, February 02, 2024YANGON, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- In the heart of Myanmar's commercial hub2024-05-21
At least 14 dead and 3 missing as landslides hit Indonesia's Sulawesi island
TANA TORAJA, Indonesia (AP) — Torrential rains triggered landslides on Indonesia’s Sulawesi island,2024-05-21Accelerating economic development helps solve 'hollowing out' of border areas
By Xu Yelu (Global Times) 16:40, March 21, 2024North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has a2024-05-21- Cancer-stricken King Charles will be feeling fresh heartache after a former IRA commander confessed2024-05-21
Rod Stewart, 79, is joined by his son Aiden, 13, while cheering on his beloved Celtic during their 3
He's a regular fixture at matches as a lifelong fan.And Rod Stewart made his latest trip to watch hi2024-05-21
atest comment