EPA Wastewater Study on PFAS Chemicals Underwent Delays, Former Officials State

Why it matters locally: South Carolina has a significant manufacturing sector, and delays in identifying industrial sources of PFAS in wastewater could impact the state's efforts to regulate discharges and protect its water resources.

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WASHINGTON – A study intended to help regulators identify industrial sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in wastewater experienced delays, two former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials said. These individuals participated in the study's development. According to the former EPA employees, the study aimed to provide information on which industries discharge the chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” with their wastewater.