A federal court settlement requires the City of Calhoun to overhaul its wastewater treatment system to address PFAS contamination, following a lawsuit by environmental groups.
Blake Silvers reports for Rome News-Tribune.
In short:
- Calhoun and the Coosa River Basin Initiative reached a settlement requiring the city to update its wastewater treatment facilities to remove PFAS from drinking water.
- PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are linked to serious health risks, including cancers, due to their persistence in the environment.
- The settlement includes independent monitoring and provisions for affected residents to receive free water testing and filtration systems.
Key quote:
“This has always been about clean water... Healthy rivers and clean drinking water aren’t a luxury — they are a necessity.”
— Jesse Demonbreun-Chapman, executive director, CRBI
Why this matters:
PFAS contamination poses significant health risks and environmental challenges. Effective management of these chemicals is essential to ensure safe drinking water and protect public health.
