Team Update - Water & Wetlands - November 2023

According to the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, the “emergent contaminants of our time” are PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substance and polyfluoroalkyl substance) chemicals, commonly known as “forever chemicals” due to their robust carbon/fluorine structural bonds. These chemicals are resistant to water, oil and heat, making them useful additives in thousands of products including water-resistant fabrics, nonstick cookware, stain-resistant coatings, and firefighting foams.
 
PFAS chemicals are water soluble, accumulate in human bodies, and are implicated in various health problems. Among the possible harmful effects are increased risk of thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol levels, decreased vaccine efficacy, high blood pressure, and decreased female fertility.
 
PFAS chemicals have been found in meat, milk, seafood, bottled water and wild game. It's been estimated that 200 million U.S. residents are drinking PFAS contaminated water. Studies have found these chemicals in the bloodstream of most Americans.
 
The Water and Wetlands Stewards consider forever chemicals to be a top priority. We will continue to work on promoting legislation for their regulation.