Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is using a new cleaning technology to remove harmful PFAS chemicals from its firefighting foam, aiming to meet upcoming state regulations.
Isabella Breda and Manuel Villa report for The Seattle Times.
In short:
- Sea-Tac is the first U.S. airport to use a cleaning solution to remove PFAS, replacing the foam with safer alternatives.
- PFAS, used for decades in firefighting, are linked to serious health issues and environmental harm.
- Washington state mandates all commercial airports switch to PFAS-free foams by fall 2025.
Key quote:
"There should have been a warning to us. But nobody ever said it was bad for you.."
— Thomas Sanchez, former Port of Seattle fire union president
Why this matters:
In response to upcoming state regulations aimed at reducing PFAS pollution, the airport's initiative represents a significant step toward mitigating the environmental impact of these hazardous substances. PFAS are commonly used in firefighting foams due to their effectiveness in extinguishing fuel fires. However, their persistence in the environment and potential to contaminate water supplies has raised alarms among health professionals and environmental advocates.
