WHO to withdraw PFAS water guidelines after accusations of corruption

The World Health Organization plans to retract its proposed drinking water guidelines for PFAS chemicals following claims of industry influence and weak protection of public health.

Tom Perkins reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• WHO's draft guidelines for PFAS chemicals were criticized for allowing levels far above US and EU limits.
• Allegations surfaced that industry-linked researchers influenced the guidelines to undermine stricter regulations.
• WHO is now forming a new panel with fewer industry ties to reassess the guidelines.

Key quote:

“This is unprecedented, but the WHO got unprecedented criticism.”

— Betsy Southerland, former EPA manager in the water division

Why this matters:

PFAS chemicals are linked to severe health issues, including cancer and liver disease. Weak guidelines could leave populations exposed to dangerous levels of these “forever chemicals” in drinking water.

Related EHN coverage:

• The real story behind PFAS and Congress’ effort to clean up contamination: Op-ed
• PFAS with your pizza? People who eat more takeout have higher levels of harmful chemicals in their bodies
• Minnesota enacts nation’s broadest ban of “forever chemicals”