Sign On to Protect Human Health: Support Stronger PFAS Water Quality Standards
The fight for clean water is an ongoing battle that demands the attention and action of all of us. One critical issue we need to address is the regulation of PFAS chemicals—commonly known as “forever chemicals”—which have contaminated water sources across the country. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like NRDC and Earthjustice, we have an opportunity to take a meaningful step forward in regulating these harmful chemicals.
Why It Matters: PFAS and Water Quality
PFAS chemicals, including PFOA, PFOS, and PFBS, have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and developmental issues in children. These chemicals are persistent in the environment and accumulate in water sources, making their regulation essential to protecting both public health and the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a draft document before the recent administration change that provides water quality criteria for human health related to these chemicals.
The document sets thresholds for how much of these chemicals can be present in our water bodies while still protecting human health. Once finalized, these criteria would guide state-level water quality standards and help inform policy for permit-writers tasked with developing discharge limits for industries and municipalities. Essentially, these standards will help protect our communities from harmful contamination, ensuring cleaner water for everyone.
Why It’s Not Enough – and Why We Need Your Voice
Though the draft criteria are a good start, they don’t go far enough in several areas. The need for stronger and more comprehensive regulations is clear. That’s why CleanWater4All is encouraging organizations like ours to sign on to the comments prepared by NRDC and Earthjustice. By adding our collective voices, we can advocate for more robust protections and ensure that our communities receive the safe, clean water they deserve.
The extended comment period provides an opportunity for those concerned about clean water to take action. As we join the push for stronger standards, we’re calling on all CleanWater4All organizations and advocates to lend their support and sign on to the comments before the deadline on April 2, 2025.
How to Get Involved
If you’re concerned about PFAS contamination in your community, now is the time to act. H2O Water Network encourages our partners, stakeholders, and community members to join the effort by signing on to the draft comment letter. The process is simple, and your participation will help amplify our shared message that water quality standards should be based on the most stringent, health-protective criteria possible.
You can access the sign-on form and draft comment letter here: Sign-on form and comment letter. Let your voice be heard in the fight for cleaner water and stronger protections against PFAS contamination.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
The work that NRDC, Earthjustice, and CleanWater4All are doing is critical to the future of water quality in the United States. But this effort isn’t just about the organizations leading the charge—it’s about the people who rely on clean water every day. Whether you live in a rural community or an urban center, we all deserve access to safe water that’s free from toxic chemicals.
By standing together and signing on to these comments, we can help strengthen these crucial regulations and ensure that future generations have access to clean, safe water. Let’s work together and push for stronger protections, so we can safeguard our water resources for years to come.
Sign On Today and Make a Difference
Let’s unite in the fight for clean water. Sign on to support stronger PFAS regulations and help us ensure that our water sources are safe for all. The deadline is fast approaching, so don’t wait—take action now and be part of a movement that will make a lasting impact on water health across the country.
