The upcoming U.S. presidential election could significantly impact federal regulation of PFAS, with environmental advocates concerned that a Trump presidency might reverse progress on limiting these harmful chemicals.
Teresa Carr reports for Undark.
In short:
- PFAS, found in many consumer products, have been linked to serious health issues and are difficult to remove from the environment.
- A second Trump administration may revisit key PFAS regulations, while a Harris presidency could continue stricter oversight.
- Many activists and scientists urge the next administration to increase funding for PFAS cleanup and prevent further contamination.
Key quote:
“You could end up going backwards in environmental protection.”
— Jennifer Orme-Zavaleta, former EPA scientist.
Why this matters:
PFAS contamination affects water sources across the U.S. and has serious health consequences. Future regulations could determine the level of cleanup responsibility for industries and how much of the financial burden falls on the public.
