Harmful ‘forever chemicals’ at Tucson Airport addressed

• The EPA has signed an agreement with the Tucson Airport Authority.
• The deal aims to tackle PFAS contamination in Tucson’s drinking water.
• PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” and can harm health.
• The agreement requires cleanup efforts if contamination is found.

September 26, 2024 — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken action to protect Tucson’s drinking water by entering into a new agreement with the Tucson Airport Authority. This agreement addresses the contamination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly called “forever chemicals,” which threaten the city’s water supply.

In a press release, the EPA’s Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman said, “It is essential that Tucson residents can continue to rely on groundwater as a safe source for drinking water.” The agreement highlights the Tucson Airport Authority’s role in ensuring public health and emphasizes the need for action to address the contamination.

The Role of the Tucson Airport Authority.

Under the agreement (formally known as an Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order on Consent), the Tucson Airport Authority must investigate the extent of PFAS contamination linked to its property. If contamination is confirmed, the Authority will explore cleanup options to address the issue. This collaborative effort also encourages the Airport Authority to work with other parties, such as Tucson Water and the Air Force, to manage the impacts of PFAS.

Commitment to Public Health.

The Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order on Consent reflects the government’s commitment to tackling PFAS contamination. The EPA will oversee the implementation of this agreement to safeguard the health of the public and the environment.

Health Risks of PFAS.

Research has shown that even low levels of PFAS exposure can lead to serious health issues. These include effects on the immune system, cardiovascular health, and child development. Studies have also linked PFAS to liver and kidney damage and certain types of cancer. The community must understand these risks as efforts continue to protect Tucson’s water resources.

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Image (Public Domain):

An F-16 from the 162nd Fighter Wing is awaiting taxi clearance at Tucson International Airport prior to takeoff.  This image is a work of a U.S. military or Department of Defense employee, taken or made as part of that person’s official duties. As a work of the U.S. federal government, the image is in the public domain in the United States.

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