Breaking news! EPA designates PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Superfund law
Step will improve transparency and accountability for PFAS cleanup
PORTSMOUTH, NH: Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) achieved a significant milestone by designating two per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund. This crucial measure aims to ensure that those responsible for contamination, particularly at Department of Defense (DOD) sites like the former Pease Air Force Base (AFB), along with numerous other former and current air bases nationwide where PFAS pollution is known or suspected, bear the financial burden of cleanup efforts.
This decision is particularly welcomed by communities residing near these bases and Superfund sites, who have long been frustrated by the EPA's perceived inaction in compelling polluters to address their pollution. For instance, despite years of denial by both the DOD and local oyster farmers regarding the impact of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) released from the former Pease AFB on fish and shellfish in New Hampshire's picturesque Great Bay, recent reports shed light on a study by Dartmouth confirming alarming levels of PFAS compounds in shellfish within the bay.
Furthermore, communities enduring prolonged frustration over the lack of action to address unchecked PFAS contamination, such as mine, may find hope in the EPA's newfound obligation to enforce cleanup efforts at Superfund sites. Take, for instance, the Coakley Landfill Superfund Dump situated in Greenland, New Hampshire, which poses a severe threat to both private and public water supplies in Portsmouth, Rye, Greenland, North Hampton, and Hampton. Despite decades of pollution and mounting concerns, residents have faced EPA's reluctance to mandate cleanup measures. Meanwhile, the responsible party, the Coakley Landfill Group, has dragged their feet on required investigation while being forced by the state to install water treatment systems in private residences and a golf course property to mitigate PFAS and 1,4-dioxane pollution. The EPA's refusal to compel comprehensive cleanup has left residents frustrated and disillusioned for decades.
On a deeply personal level, these recent developments are not only welcomed but also affirming. As a scientist and fervent advocate committed to instigating change, I maintain a grounded perspective. My concerns regarding the alarming rates of cancer and chronic diseases within communities like mine, and indeed across the nation, are undeniably valid. Having experienced the direct impact of environmentally-triggered cancer within my own family, my heart goes out to others similarly affected.
It's disheartening to acknowledge that for years, communities have been subjected to unnecessary exposure to hazardous chemicals that could have prevented illness, often with regulatory oversight falling short. Despite facing personal attacks from various quarters, whether it be from oyster farmers, the Department of Defense, or officials at state and federal agencies, I harbor no illusions about receiving apologies from these parties.
My focus remains resolute on driving tangible progress and ensuring accountability among those responsible for addressing environmental crises such as PFAS pollution. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but my commitment to advocating for the well-being of communities and the protection of our environment remains unwavering.
You can read more about this work in my book entitled Female Disruptors: Stories of Mighty Female Scientists. The book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through your local bookstore.
"Female Disruptors is a wonderful mix of stories about mighty female scientists, and carefully documented data on everything from discrimination against women in STEM to the impact of balancing a career in science with motherhood. Mindi makes this personal by interweaving her own stories, which makes the work come alive. If you want to both be infuriated at woman scientist's plight, and also hear words of hope, and solid ideas for change, read this book."
~ Dr. Linda Rhodes, VMD, PhD