Recent findings by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) have indicated that PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” are contaminating at least 45% of drinking water sources in the United States. This is especially high near urban areas.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used for many different purposes, such as non-stick pans, fire extinguisher foam, and food packaging products that are grease resistant. They take a long time to break down and can be found in many items used by people every day.
The USGS tested 716 locations across the nation and discovered that approximately 75% of tap water in urban areas and 25% in rural areas contained PFAS.
Out of over 12,000 types of PFAS, they tested only 32 due to current testing limitations. Concentrations were highest in the Great Plains region, Great Lakes area, Eastern Seaboard, and Central/Southern California regions.
Kelly Smalling, hydrologist and lead author on the study stated: “USGS scientists tested water collected directly from people’s kitchen sinks across the nation [and] provided the most comprehensive study to date on PFAS in tap water from both private wells and public supplies.”
She added: “The study estimates that at least one type of PFAS – of those that were monitored – could be present in nearly half of the tap water in the U.S….PFAS concentrations were similar between public supplies and private wells.”
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that most people have been exposed to PFAS which may lead to various health complications such as a decrease in fertility or developmental issues for children, increased risk of certain cancers, increased cholesterol levels, or interference with natural hormones within the body.
In response to this issue, they have created several action plans intended to reduce exposure with a particular focus on providing disadvantaged communities access to clean drinking water via $2 billion allocated by Congress through its Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed last February.
An America-First company in Arizona has found an inexpensive (under $325) solution to this problem. Sentry H20 has developed an easy-to-install system.
The Sentry Wellness System is a compact, under-sink water treatment system that delivers pure, refreshing water that tastes great and supports your body’s natural processes. It filters out harmful toxins like PFAS, PFOS, and Pharmaceutical VOCs, enriches water with essential minerals, and boosts alkalinity.
