Brunswick calls for swift removal of PFAS foam after chemical spill at local airport

The Brunswick, Maine town council is urging state and local authorities to remove PFAS-laden firefighting foam from the regional airport following a recent spill that threatens local water sources.

Emma Davis reports for Maine Morning Star.

In short:

• Over 1,000 gallons of toxic PFAS firefighting foam were accidentally discharged at Brunswick Executive Airport on Aug. 19.
• The council passed a resolution requesting immediate removal of the foam from all hangars and better communication with the public on future spills.
• Local contamination concerns persist, as testing revealed PFAS in ponds near the site, exceeding federal standards.

Key quote:

“It seems to me like this was a ticking time bomb that something was going to happen.”

— Cody Gillis, Brunswick resident

Why this matters:

PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are linked to cancer and other health risks. The chemical spill could contaminate water sources, impacting public health and the environment long-term.

Read more:

• Toxic PFAS pollution is likely at more than 57,000 US locations: Report
• PFAS contamination is likely at Pittsburgh airport. Airports may face legal challenges by doing nothing.
• Former firefighters describe how they used foam with PFAS chemicals at Pittsburgh's airport for decades