EPA Rolls Back 'Forever Chemical' Limits in Drinking Water, Raising Concerns in WNC

WNC --   The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced significant changes to federal regulations for certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," in drinking water.

This decision, revealed around May 14, 2025, involves rolling back previously established limits for some of these contaminants and delaying compliance deadlines for others, raising concerns among environmental advocates and potentially impacting water quality efforts here in Western North Carolina.

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in a wide range of products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. They are called "forever chemicals" because they break down very slowly in the environment and can accumulate in the human body, with studies linking exposure to various health problems, including certain cancers, immune system dysfunction, and developmental issues.

Under a rule finalized by the EPA in April 2024, the federal government set the first-ever legally enforceable limits for six specific PFAS in public drinking water and established a hazard index for mixtures of some of these chemicals. That rule aimed to reduce exposure for millions of Americans and was seen as a critical step in addressing widespread PFAS contamination.

However, the recent announcement from the EPA includes two key actions that alter these regulations:

Limits Rescinded for Four PFAS: The EPA plans to rescind and reconsider the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for four specific PFAS compounds: PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (often called GenX), and PFBS. The agency cites a need to address what it terms "procedural flaws" in the previous rulemaking process. This means the federal requirement for water systems to limit these four chemicals to the levels set in the 2024 rule is being withdrawn, at least temporarily, while the EPA reviews them.

Compliance Deadline for PFOA and PFOS Delayed: For PFOA and PFOS, two of the most prevalent and concerning PFAS, the EPA will maintain the enforceable limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt). However, the deadline for public water systems to achieve this compliance has been extended from 2029 to 2031. The EPA states this delay is intended to provide water utilities, particularly smaller and rural systems, more time and flexibility to implement the necessary infrastructure and treatment technologies.

Local Impact on Western North Carolina, Focusing on Asheville and the North Fork Plant:

These federal changes have direct implications for water systems and residents across Western North Carolina. Reports have indicated the presence of PFAS in local water sources, including detections exceeding the previously established EPA limits in some areas. A significant point of consideration is Asheville's water system, particularly the North Fork Water Treatment Plant.

North Fork Water Treatment Plant: The largest of Asheville's plants, located in Black Mountain, draws water from the North Fork and Burnett Reservoirs. It's a critical source for a large population in the area. If the EPA's decision leads to less stringent regulation, this plant, and thus a large portion of the regional water supply, might face less pressure to implement advanced treatment for the four PFAS compounds where limits are being reconsidered (PFHxS, PFNA, GenX, PFBS).

Potential for Continued Exposure: The rescinding of limits for these four PFAS is concerning. If detected in the North Fork or other WNC water sources, there will be less regulatory pressure to remove them immediately. While the 4 ppt limit for PFOA/PFOS remains, the delayed compliance deadline means residents could be exposed for a longer period.

Financial Implications for Asheville and Other WNC Utilities: The extension to 2031 for PFOA/PFOS compliance could give Asheville and other WNC systems more time to secure funding and upgrade treatment. Advanced filtration systems, which are costly, might be needed, and a two-year extension could be financially beneficial for some systems.

GenX Concerns: While much of the GenX concern has been in the eastern part of the state, any weakening of federal standards could impact the long-term approach to this contaminant, which has been found in some parts of WNC.

Environmental and Health Advocacy: Local advocates are likely to express concerns about the potential health implications of delayed action, especially given the known link between PFAS exposure and health problems.

WNCTimes

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