More recently, scientific studies have shown that certain chemical compounds called PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), which humans have introduced into the environment, induce drinking water disasters.
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) has drawn the most attention because of its ubiquity and long-term environmental persistence.
This article analyzes the health hazards of AF, its effect on public welfare, and its framework from a legal perspective.
What is AFFF, and why is it used?
AFFF is a fire-extinguishing foam used for decades in the military, by local authorities, and at industrial sites to extinguish fires—including fires on board ships—when flammable liquids such as fuels or oils catch fire.
It is valuable since it may squelch the flames sufficiently fast by developing a barrier above the flammable fluid, which is why this material excels in immediate action with a consequential need for fire control.
Hidden risks: The dangers of PFAS
Even though it is highly efficient in fighting fires, AFFF contains PFAS chemicals known to be unsparing and non-biodegradable pollutants. For this reason, they even earned the nickname “Forever Chemicals.” Ground and surface water also become compromised, soiling the drinking supply. PFAS can also percolate into the soil, thereby containing across a broader area, offering little solace beyond containment efforts only.
Long-term PFAS exposure has been linked in studies to a variety of health issues, such as:
- Cancer: Adversely affecting health by exhibiting a relationship with the development of kidney and testicular cancer.
- Developmental Problems: Exposure to unhealthy living can affect the growth and development of children.
- Hormonal disturbances in the endocrine system affect hormonal regulation.
- Immunological problems: compromising immune response and increasing predisposition to infection.
Public health impact
PFAS exposure via drinking water is a public health concern on the rise. Where AFFF has been used (military bases, airports, and industrial sites), locations show increased PFAS concentrations in drinking water, as shown by studies conducted in communities adjacent to such locations. This has polluted the water supplies of thousands of people and communities worldwide.
The legal framework: what is being done about it?
Increasing awareness of the dangers of AFFF and PFAS has stirred governments and regulatory agencies into action. For certain PFASs, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established health advisory limits for drinking water, although these are non-enforceable MASTER. In response, several states, including Michigan and New Jersey, have imposed maximum limits on waterborne concentrations of PFAS.
Countries worldwide have started to regulate or ban the use of AFFF with PFAS. The European Union has designated some PFAS as Substances of Very High Concern and has forbidden them EU-wide.
There has also been a substantial uptick in PFAS contamination-related litigation. Lawsuits have resulted in massive damages awarded against companies and governments for contaminating drinking water, leading to ill health. According to ConsumerShield, multimillion-dollar settlements have been reached to cover cleanup costs and medical treatments for affected individuals.
What can you do to protect yourself?
If you live near a site where AFFF was used, it is imperative to take precautionary measures. These may include:
- Water testing: Regularly check your healthy water supply for PFAS. Many laboratories can test water samples.
- Filters your water: You may want to use a filtered water pitcher or filter certified to reduce levels of PFAS. Well-known activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems are effective.
- Education and advocacy: Learn more about the risks associated with PFAS while supporting policies that favor stricter regulation at a local or national level. This will help improve your health and the health of those around you.
What do you do if your water is contaminated?
If you suspect contaminated drinking water has hurt your health or if it caused damage to your property, you first need documentation to bring your case. This can be water test results certified from accredited labs, medical records showing someone has fallen ill or suffered an injury because of the contamination, and testimonial evidence filmed if possible.
Before going through the environmental litigation process, you should speak to an attorney who specializes in either personal injury or is knowledgeable about ecological law concerning whether your case could be grounds for a lawsuit, the statute of limitations, and how much it would cost. If you want to proceed, the attorney will assist in filing a formal complaint against all liable parties with actual causes of action and damages sought from different forms or types.
This next part of the legal journey will involve discovery, where both sides provide information and evidence to one another. Often, settlement occurs as described above, before trial, or when there is no negotiated settlement, the case goes to trial.
Finally, the lawyer will take it to court, where they present everything regarding your case in front of a judge or jury. You will decide if that party is responsible for damages and determine how much both are owed.
Even if you are successful, there is a possibility that the defendant may not follow it and will require further steps to make him do so. While filing a water pollution lawsuit might seem daunting and lengthy, this step is critical to ensuring you receive the justice you deserve (both financially and legally) so others are protected from similar harm in the future. You need to act fast, appropriately, and with the help of professionals, or you can lose your rights and even infringe some laws.
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Conclusion
The hidden costs of AFFF or PFAS compounds to drinking water and public health are significant. As awareness of these dangers grows, individuals, communities, and governments must act to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of drinking water.
Although regulation and litigation are moving forward, we all must take proactive steps to protect our environment and health.
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