Reducing Wastewater Discharge of PFAS and Other Emerging Contaminants

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a PFAS strategic roadmap to achieve tangible results in communities impacted by PFAS contamination. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) comprise a large group of widely used, widely distributed, and long-lasting chemicals, with the potential to cause health and environmental impacts. As part of the roadmap, EPA committed to reducing and preventing PFAS discharge into surface waters in order to help reduce the spread of PFAS throughout the environment.

ERG is providing a variety of support to EPA to help the agency fulfil this commitment. For example:

• We are supporting EPA’s efforts to reduce PFAS from industrial discharges through the Effluent Guidelines Programs. We are working with EPA to evaluate discharges from PFAS manufacturers and processors, chrome finishers, landfills, and textile mills by reviewing discharges, conducting sampling, and evaluating potential treatment technologies.
• We are supporting EPA’s administration of a new Clean Water State Revolving Fund emerging contaminants capitalization grant enacted under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This support includes outreach to help states identify and fund eligible municipal or nonpoint source projects to address emerging contaminants, including PFAS.
• We are also compiling information on viable technologies that have been demonstrated to remove a variety of emerging contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and microplastics, to support utilities in identifying effective treatment solutions.