The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is facing allegations of misleading the public about PFAS contamination in pesticides, as a watchdog group claims the agency withheld critical test results.
Carey Gillam reports for The Guardian and New Lede.
In short:
- Documents show the EPA found PFAS in pesticides but did not disclose these results, contradicting a previous press release.
- The nonprofit group Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) claims the EPA's actions are scientifically and ethically problematic.
- Former EPA research fellow Steven Lasee supports the allegations, noting discrepancies in the EPA's testing methodology and reporting.
Key quote:
“It’s pretty outrageous. You don’t get to just ignore the stuff that doesn’t support your hypothesis. That is not science. That is corruption.”
— Kyla Bennett, director of scientific policy, Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.
Why this matters:
PFAS chemicals are linked to severe health risks, including cancer and immune system damage. Accurate reporting and testing are crucial for protecting public health and ensuring regulatory integrity. Read more: EPA’s “scientific integrity” program lacks teeth, group alleges.
