New research led by the U.S. Geological Survey now estimates that between 71 and 95 million Americans, over 20% of the U.S. population, potentially rely on groundwater with detectable levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) for their drinking water supplies — many more people than previously estimated. Adequate coverage of groundwater contamination is crucial as it’s both a regional environmental issue and a largely invisible public health crisis that could have profound long-term impacts.
The study, published in Science, uses an advanced predictive model that accounts for various PFAS sources — such as industrial sites, wastewater facilities, and fire training areas — to estimate the likelihood of PFAS contamination across the contiguous United States. PFAS — also called “forever chemicals” — are known for their durability and resistance to degradation and have become widespread in the environment, infiltrating soils, waters and even human bodies.
The model suggests a stark reality: many Americans may unknowingly drink PFAS-contaminated water due to the lack of comprehensive testing, especially in domestic wells.
The findings suggest that PFAS contamination isn’t limited to industrial areas or densely populated regions. Instead, the contamination likely spans vast areas, affecting both public and private drinking water wells, including those in rural and underserved areas, where water sources are less regulated and monitored. This means that for millions of people, accessing safe water may depend on factors as arbitrary as geography, regulatory reach, and economic resources, highlighting inequities that journalists have a unique opportunity to explore.
Why this story matters now
The PFAS contamination crisis is emblematic of the broader struggle to balance economic activity with public health. The ongoing debate about regulating forever chemicals is part of a larger narrative about the responsibility corporations and governments have to protect natural resources and public welfare. This is an opportunity to shed light on the complexities of environmental policy, public health, and individual rights.
As the EPA moves toward possible regulation of PFAS in drinking water, public awareness and understanding of the issue will be critical. Journalists have a crucial role in keeping the public informed, advocating for transparency, and ensuring that the communities most affected by PFAS contamination are not left out of the conversation.
More about PFAS: Health and environmental risks
PFAS are known to pose significant health risks. Exposure has been linked to numerous adverse health effects, including cancer, immune system suppression, thyroid disease, and developmental issues in children. What makes forever chemicals especially concerning is their persistence; they do not break down naturally and can accumulate in the environment and human bodies over time. Because of their non-degradable nature, PFAS can be found almost everywhere, from human blood samples to remote bodies of water.
Journalists covering this topic should be aware that, despite the severity of these health risks, regulation and public knowledge about PFAS remain limited. There is no federal standard for PFAS levels in drinking water, though the Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed new guidelines. This regulatory gap leaves millions exposed to potentially harmful levels of PFAS without clear protections or guidance.
Earlier this year, the Biden-Harris administration issued the first enforceable U.S. drinking water standards targeting PFAS, which is expected to impact around 100 million people. This initiative is part of a larger $1 billion effort funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support clean water projects nationwide, especially for communities with elevated PFAS levels.
Public awareness and informed advocacy could be key to prompting stricter regulations and safety measures.
Contaminated water in news deserts
Groundwater contamination by PFAS isn’t limited to urban or heavily industrialized areas. This issue affects rural and underserved communities disproportionately, as many such areas rely on unregulated domestic wells for drinking water. Often, these communities have limited access to news, making it less likely that residents are aware of potential contamination risks. This highlights the broader problem of “news deserts” — regions with little to no local journalism coverage — where environmental hazards like PFAS contamination may go unreported and unaddressed.
In areas where news resources are already thin, local journalists can bring PFAS contamination issues to light, connecting residents with health resources, and pushing for state and local action. By providing consistent and clear coverage, journalists can help mitigate the lack of accessible information in these regions.
Resources for journalists
To assist with reporting on PFAS contamination, the USGS has developed a publicly available, interactive map that shows probability estimates of PFAS contamination in groundwater at drinking water supply depths. This tool can help journalists localize the issue, identify communities at risk, and convey the scale of the problem to readers. Further, engaging with experts at organizations like the Environmental Working Group, which regularly publishes research and policy recommendations on forever chemicals, can provide additional insights and data for in-depth reporting.
And some states have enacted stricter PFAS regulations, which can provide case studies and comparison points for stories. Following up on state and local initiatives can give audiences a sense of what effective PFAS management might look like and the steps their communities could take.
As PFAS contamination in drinking water becomes more widely recognized, readers will want to know what actions they can take to protect themselves and their families. Practical, consumer-focused aspects of the PFAS issue include information on home water filtration options, guidance on understanding PFAS levels, and links to useful resources for further information.
Understanding water filtration options for PFAS
Not all water filters are capable of removing forever chemicals, so it’s essential to know which technologies are effective. Studies show that filtration systems using activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange are the most effective at reducing PFAS levels in drinking water
- Activated carbon filters: These filters work by adsorbing contaminants like PFAS. They are relatively affordable and widely available, but their effectiveness can vary. Large, whole-house carbon filters tend to be more effective than smaller pitcher or faucet options.
- Reverse osmosis (RO) systems: RO systems are some of the most effective filters for PFAS removal. These systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane, leaving contaminants like PFAS behind. They are typically more expensive and may require professional installation.
- Ion exchange filters: Ion exchange systems use resin to capture and remove PFAS molecules. They’re usually more complex than typical household filters but can be very effective in reducing PFAS levels.
Consumer resources for testing and additional information
Stories can direct readers to resources that offer testing options and further details on PFAS:
- Home testing kits: For households that rely on well water or wish to be proactive, home water testing kits for PFAS are available. Though these tests can be expensive, they may provide peace of mind and data to support decisions on water treatment.
- EPA’s resources and guidelines: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a collection of resources and guidelines for PFAS in drinking water. These documents provide current regulatory recommendations and offer valuable insights into what’s being done at the federal level to address PFAS
