97M American’s Water Fouled by Unregulated Chemicals

A hand in a blue glove holds a test tube under a running kitchen sink faucet, filling it with water.

Millions of Americans unknowingly consume tap water tainted with harmful, unregulated chemicals, according to a new study by the Silent Spring Institute. Researchers found over 97 million people in the United States have been exposed to contaminants that pose potential health risks, highlighting a growing concern about water quality nationwide. What Are the Contaminants? The … Read more

NC To Address PFAS Contamination In Surface Water

A serene river in North Carolina surrounded by lush greenery with an industrial facility in the background subtly discharging into the 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 … Read more

EPA Adds Nine New “Forever Chemicals” to Inventory

EPA government building with the words "More PFAS Added" written in bold yellow letters.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has expanded its Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) to include nine additional “forever chemicals.” This move is aimed at increasing transparency and helping communities monitor the release of these persistent substances into their environments. What Are Forever Chemicals? Forever chemicals, technically referred to as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are synthetic … Read more

“EPA Not Doing Enough” Says Camp Lejeune Survivors

A detailed map of Camp Lejeune highlighting specific contaminated sites and buildings linked to PFAS exposure.

This week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned two chemicals associated with cancer. However, environmental activists and those impacted by toxic exposure are urging more comprehensive measures. Retired Marine Corps Master Sergeant Jerry Ensminger, a vocal advocate for addressing chemical contamination, emphasized the EPA’s need for additional support to combat “forever chemicals.” Speaking on NewsNation … Read more

Gore-Tex Jackets Are Poisoning The Well, Literally

Yellow waterproof jacket with skull image displayed inside a rain chamber, testing PFAS shedding.

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” are a group of over 15,000 synthetic chemicals designed to resist breaking down, both in the environment and in human bodies. Originally developed in the 1940s, PFAS compounds have been widely used for their remarkable nonstick, waterproof, and stain-resistant properties. But in recent years, as … Read more

Water Utilities Rage Against EPA’s PFAS Limits

Chemists pouring chemicals into large water utility pipes while shredding documents and burning papers in an industrial lab, symbolizing water utility resistance to regulations.

In a surprising legal battle, major trade groups representing U.S. water utilities are challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new limits on toxic PFAS chemicals in drinking water. The utilities, tasked with delivering clean and safe water, have a history of opposing regulations that could improve water quality, according to public health advocates. The History … Read more

URGENT: Boil Water Alert in Wilmington, NC on Sept. 15

A boiling pot of water with steam rising, along with an alert notice for a boil water advisory in Wilmington, NC. The image includes a logo from East Coast Water Quality Inc.

WARNING – WILMINGTON, NC Around 300 customers of the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) in the Sunset Park area and along Carolina Beach Road in Wilmington will be affected by a precautionary boil water advisory starting Sunday, September 15. The advisory will begin at 5 p.m., impacting water services across several specific addresses. Areas … Read more

North Carolina’s Ignored Drinking Water Crisis

A view of the Cape Fear River in North Carolina with calm waters and greenery along the banks. Industrial factories are visible in the distance, hinting at pollution. A warning sign in the foreground alerts to water contamination. The sky is overcast, reflecting environmental concerns.

In 2017, Wilmington’s StarNews uncovered a shocking truth: the Cape Fear River, which supplies drinking water to around 350,000 people, was tainted by toxic chemicals known as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The contamination had been happening for decades, courtesy of DuPont and its spin-off company Chemours, which dumped these harmful compounds into the river. … Read more

Swim Advisories in NC, Beaches Contaminated

Beach with pier and people, text overlay says "DON'T SWIM HERE."

North Carolina beachgoers need to exercise caution as three popular beaches face swim advisories due to potential contamination. The state’s Department of Public Health has flagged Wrightsville Beach’s Cama Access, Pamlico River’s City Park, and Washington at the Pamlico River for possible health risks. Current Situation While North Carolina contends with these advisories, neighboring South … 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