Report: Global PFAS Contamination in Bottled Water

Various global bottled water brands on a grocery store shelf with invisible contaminant overlay.

A comprehensive new report published in ACS ES&T Water reveals that 99% of bottled water brands worldwide contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely known as “forever chemicals.” This startling figure highlights a pervasive contamination issue, challenging assumptions that bottled water provides a purer alternative to tap water. PFAS are synthetic chemicals valued for their … Read more

Wisconsin Wells Contaminated with Pesticides

Wisconsin farmland with dead bees scattered on the ground, symbolizing pesticide contamination.

The state of Wisconsin estimates that approximately 43 percent of private wells contain detectable levels of pesticides. This alarming statistic comes from a recent statewide survey of 380 private wells, conducted by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). The survey, carried out every five to ten years, assesses the presence of pesticides … Read more

Edenton NC: 30,000+ Gallons of Wastewater Discharged

Flooded streets in a small town with overflowing sewage and wastewater after heavy rainfall.

Edenton, N.C. experienced a significant wastewater spill over the weekend following heavy rainfall that overwhelmed the town’s drainage systems. On Saturday, an estimated 33,000 gallons of untreated wastewater were discharged into the streets and nearby waterways during a period of flash flooding. Breakdown of the Discharge The deluge led to multiple discharges across different parts … Read more

Tap Water Way Better Than Bottled Fiji Water

Comparison image showing the high cost and environmental impact of bottled water versus the low cost and eco-friendliness of tap water.

Bottled water often seems like a convenient and pure choice, but beneath the surface, the reality is murkier. From inflated costs to potential health risks, the bottled water industry carries significant consequences for consumers and the environment. Here are six crucial facts about bottled water that might make you reconsider your next purchase. The High … Read more

1.7M Gallons of Sewage Spill into Tar River, NC

Contaminated Tar River with sewage overflow under a trestle, warning signs along the riverbank, and city officials in safety gear assessing the situation.

The City of Rocky Mount recently reported a significant environmental incident: a 1.7 million gallon sewage overflow into the Tar River. The overflow was traced to a utility hole located under the trestle on River Side Drive. Local Impact on Tar River The Tar River, cherished by locals for recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and … Read more

How 3M Found and Hid Forever Chemical Dangers

Ominous depiction of 3M Corporation as a large factory emitting toxic fumes with polluted surroundings.

Early Discoveries at 3M In 1997, Kris Hansen, a chemist at 3M Corporation, embarked on an unexpected journey that would unveil alarming truths about chemical contamination. Known for inventing Scotch Tape and Post-it notes, 3M produced a variety of products containing fluorochemicals. These man-made compounds, found in products like Scotchgard and Scotchban, played a crucial … Read more

Pennsylvania Wants To Ban “Forever Chemicals” Products

Photograph showing various consumer products affected by Pennsylvania's proposed ban on PFAS chemicals, with the Pennsylvania state capitol building in the background.

Pennsylvania has introduced House Bill 2238, aiming to ban per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” from various consumer products by 2027. This legislation seeks to eliminate PFAS in items such as cleaning products, carpets, cookware, cosmetics, dental floss, food packaging, and children’s products. The Ubiquity and Impact of PFAS State … Read more

Baltimore Waters Filled With Massive Sewage Overflow

Map illustrating the volume of sewage overflow in Baltimore City with varying circle sizes representing different gallon ranges.

In a distressing environmental event last week, Baltimore City witnessed a significant sewage overflow that led to over 14 million gallons of untreated sewage water being discharged into the city’s streams and rivers. This incident was triggered by a potent mix of heavy rainfall and snowmelt, putting the city’s aging sewage infrastructure under immense pressure. … Read more

The Hidden Dangers In Your Supposedly ‘Pure’ Bottled Water

A pile of empty plastic water bottles with red caps, signifying waste and environmental issues related to bottled water.

In recent years, the presence of tiny plastic particles in bottled water has sparked significant concern among consumers and researchers alike. A groundbreaking study by Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty laboratory, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights an alarming issue: the proliferation of nanoplastics and associated chemicals in bottled water. These findings … Read more

Chesapeake’s 2000 Gallon Sewage Overflow On Christmas

sewage overflow with Christmas decorations

On Christmas Eve, Chesapeake witnessed an environmental concern as over 2,000 gallons of sewage overflowed due to a blockage in a sewer line. This incident not only disrupted the festive spirit but also raised concerns about water quality and environmental safety. The Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) immediately sprang into action, testing water quality and … Read more