The EPA has directed the U.S. Air Force and Arizona National Guard to address toxic PFAS contamination in Tucson's groundwater, demanding immediate cleanup and cost-sharing.
Katya Mendoza reports for AZPM.
In short:
- The EPA issued an emergency order to clean up PFAS, a hazardous chemical, in Tucson's water supply.
- The contamination affects a 10-square-mile area, including the Tucson International Airport and nearby military bases.
- The cleanup plan requires significant investment, with PFAS levels at the site reaching 53,000 parts per trillion.
Key quote:
“We want to first inform the community that drinking water from Tucson Water is safe, that water from TARP is not being currently served as drinking water.”
— Michelle Rogow, EPA
Why this matters:
PFAS contamination poses severe health risks, including cancer, and has rendered a key water source unusable without treatment. The EPA's intervention highlights a growing recognition of the severity of PFAS pollution and the need for federal and state agencies to collaborate on remediation efforts.
