As semiconductor production skyrockets due to the Chips and Science Act, industry groups are pushing back against environmental regulations for toxic PFAS waste.
Tom Perkins reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- The PFAS Consortium, formed by semiconductor producers, is resisting regulations on toxic PFAS chemicals, which are crucial in chip manufacturing.
- PFAS chemicals, known as “forever chemicals,” pose serious health and environmental risks, but the industry argues that alternatives are difficult or impossible to find.
- Despite public health concerns, a defense bill amendment may exempt new semiconductor projects from environmental review.
Key quote:
“It seems like a really bad idea to exempt these plants from regulation.”
— Arlene Blum, head of the Green Science Policy Institute
Why this matters:
PFAS pollution from the booming semiconductor industry threatens both environmental and public health. Without stricter regulations, communities could face long-term exposure to these dangerous chemicals.
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