NC To Address PFAS Contamination In Surface Water

North Carolina is advancing a framework to combat per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in surface water. These measures include targeted monitoring and minimization efforts aimed at reducing pollution while alleviating cleanup costs for utilities and consumers.

At a recent meeting, the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission (EMC) reviewed plans outlined by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to address PFAS discharges into surface waters. These waters are vital for public water supplies and ecological health.

Monitoring and Minimization Framework

The proposed plan introduces a framework requiring industrial facilities to monitor PFAS discharges quarterly, escalating to monthly monitoring if levels exceed specified thresholds. Facilities significantly contributing to contamination would develop minimization plans.

“We’re trying to find a way to reduce PFAS going to surface waters in the state,” said Julie Grzyb, deputy director of the Division of Water Resources. “This minimization plan means facilities would look at what they discharge, see if they have PFAS, and work toward minimizing it — maybe substitute a product line or materials, or whatever they could do to reduce it.”

The plan also identifies major industrial dischargers and evaluates the impact of consumer products on surface water pollution.

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are used in products ranging from nonstick cookware to cosmetics. They persist in the environment, resist degradation, and pose serious health risks, including cancer, thyroid disorders, and developmental issues.

“These forever chemicals are in everything — makeup, plastics, pans,” Grzyb explained. “It’s not just industries discharging PFAS; it’s also in household wastewater and even drinking water. It’s everywhere we test.”

Dr. Jamie DeWitt, an expert from East Carolina University, noted the extensive exposure risks in the state. “North Carolina is the third-highest state for PFAS exposure,” she said, citing associations with various health effects like cholesterol-related diseases, pregnancy complications, and certain cancers.

Balancing Costs and Environmental Protection

The EMC faces a complex balancing act between economic considerations and environmental health. “We are charged with enabling legislation to balance economic factors, including the costs and benefits, with environmental factors,” said EMC Chair John Solomon.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized drinking water standards for PFAS, North Carolina’s plan focuses on addressing surface water contamination to prevent downstream pollution.

Failure to curb PFAS pollution at its source leaves utilities and ratepayers to shoulder the financial burden of cleanup. The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority has already spent $75 million on PFAS filtration systems, with further investments anticipated. Wilmington City Council member Salette Andrews warned, “This immense financial burden has already forced [the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority] to raise rates repeatedly, with the likelihood of further increases.”

Fayetteville Public Works Commission is constructing a $92 million filtration system to remove PFAS from drinking water. Across North Carolina, an estimated 300 drinking water systems require costly upgrades to meet new federal standards.

Regulatory Action to Curb PFAS at the Source

Former DEQ Secretary Elizabeth Biser criticized delays in implementing PFAS regulations, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. “All we’re asking is that the companies who are using PFAS not put it in the environment,” she stated.

By targeting surface water contamination, the DEQ estimates up to 9,000 cancer-related deaths could be avoided. The commission has directed the DEQ to expedite rule drafting for PFAS monitoring and minimization, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for February.

As North Carolina takes steps to mitigate PFAS contamination, its approach underscores the importance of addressing upstream sources to reduce downstream impacts. This proactive strategy aims to protect public health, safeguard ecosystems, and alleviate the financial burden on communities.

Key Solutions for PFAS Contamination

Reverse osmosis filtration systems and whole-home water conditioners offer effective solutions for removing PFAS from water supplies. Reverse osmosis systems use advanced membranes to filter out PFAS molecules, while whole-home water conditioners improve water quality across all taps, protecting households from harmful contaminants. These technologies provide a vital line of defense against the pervasive threat of PFAS in water systems.

Source: WRAL News