A recent report from the Department of Defense (DoD) indicates that numerous military bases in the US may be contaminating local water sources with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.” This adds to the mounting evidence that these substances have polluted significant portions of the country’s drinking water.
PFAS are called “forever chemicals,” because these substances do not degrade for hundreds or even thousands of years. They are commonly used to create products that are resistant to water, heat, and stains, but they are harmful to humans. While the complete impact of PFAS is not well-known, they have been associated with cancer and birth defects.
Out of the 275 military bases examined, 245 of them are potentially releasing PFAS plumes near groundwater aquifers that provide drinking water. These aquifers are crucial sources of water for entire communities. If a sole source aquifer becomes contaminated, there are no other viable options for obtaining safe drinking water for the affected communities.
The extent and causes of pollution and the communities affected are still unknown. The information provided by the DoD does not provide a clear picture. However, it is expected that the number of contaminated sites will increase as the DoD investigates all 707 military installations mentioned in the report.
Ongoing research shows that PFAS chemicals are widespread, with a recent study finding that approximately 50% of tap water in the US contains these contaminants.
For years, scientists have been concerned about the significant levels of PFAS contamination at military bases, but only recently have we started to comprehend the full extent of its impact. This latest report on military bases contaminating drinking water only offers a glimpse into the extent of contamination in civilian water supplies, but the information it provides is frustratingly vague.
Reference- The Guardian Article, EPA website, DoD Report,The News York Times