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Wastewater discharge can be a primary release of PFAS into the environment and has the potential to contaminate drinking water sources. Stormwater runoff from contaminated sites can compound the problem.
A wide variety of industries contribute to PFAS contamination through wastewater discharges and stormwater runoff.
Liquid waste can leach PFAS from landfill, resulting in contaminated leachate being sent to wastewater treatment.
Stormwater runoff from contaminated sites may be released into the environment or combined with sewer overflow.
Airport wastewater and stormwater runoff can be heavily contaminated with PFAS due to the foams use to fight aviation fires.
It is estimated that 98-99% of all PFAS are precursors. These precursors can be converted into terminal PFAS compounds through the oxidation processes found in traditional wastewater treatment plants and under natural environmental conditions.
Over the next 2-3 years, the EPA plans to strengthen its focus on PFAS in wastewater discharge through a number of existing programs. Learn more about these regulations and programs on our PFAS regulations page.
Plan 15 is used to restrict and study PFAS discharges from industrial sources
Additional monitoring requirements and new test methods for permitting
Designate PFAS as a hazardous substance, clearing way for greater accountability for polluters
Track the release of toxic chemicals into the environment from industry
In December of 2022, the EPA announced that it would remove the low-volume exemption (de minimis) from its TRI reporting requirements. Now, all businesses in the covered industries must report any management of TRI-listed PFAS that might be released into the environment, no matter how small.
Mitigating your risks starts with understanding the regulatory landscape for your industry and the states in which you do business. Pace® PFAS experts can brief your organization on:
Several methods are available to analyze for targeted and non-targeted PFAS in wastewater. Pace® can help you select the right method based on the medium and the goals of your project.
Pace® method for targeted PFAS compounds
Quality control standards for PFAS testing
Recently developed screening method for targeted PFAS
Draft method for 40 PFAS compounds in non-potable water, solids, and biota
Low-volume test method for total organic fluorine (TOF) in aqueous matrices
Screening method used to quantify TOF at the ppb level in aqueous matrices
Method for analyzing PFAS precursors in aqueous and solid matrices
We’re certified/accredited by NELAC, ISO, DOD, DOE, and in every state with a PFAS lab certification program.
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We can test for PFAS in both solid and aqueous matrices, including potable and non-potable waters, soils, and biota.
We’re on the leading edge of science, working with EPA, DOD, ASTM, and others to develop new methods for analyzing PFAS.