Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and PFAS Contamination in US Drinking Water
A recent study by the U.S. Geological Survey found that nearly half of the drinking water in the United States is contaminated with “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals can cause cancer and other health complications. Southern California is among the regions with a higher probability of tap water contaminated with PFAS.
PFAS Contamination in Los Angeles County
These findings are worrisome, especially for communities already suffering from other sources of pollution. In Los Angeles County, several cities such as Commerce, Montebello, Monterey Park, Vernon, and Downey were found to have PFAS levels higher than recommended in 2019.
Los Angeles County supervisors have launched an effort to assess the full extent of PFAS contamination in drinking water supplies. However, more needs to be done by state and local authorities to ensure drinking water is free of these harmful chemicals that are found in many household products.
Research on Health Effects and Prevention Strategies
PFAS were classified as an “emerging contaminant” by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2016. However, little is known about disparities of PFAS contamination in different ethnic communities or the specific harms inflicted on these communities.
Researchers at the University of Southern California have initiated a study on the health effects of PFAS contamination in drinking water in Los Angeles County. The study focuses on predominantly Latino communities in the east and southeast that are already burdened with environmental pollution. The multidisciplinary study aims to develop prevention strategies and sustainable remediation solutions that can be implemented cost-effectively.
Lead researcher Lida Chatzi, director of USC’s Center for Translational Research on Environmental Health, has linked PFAS exposure to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders, and disruption of critical biological processes in youth. The study will also investigate the effects of newer PFAS that have been created to replace harmful ones.
Government Action and Regulations
PFAS have been detected in humans and animals and are linked to negative health effects. They are found in thousands of commercial and industrial products. The Biden administration has proposed national drinking water standards for six PFAS, but there are over 12,000 types.
California has recently banned the use of PFAS in many products, such as cosmetics, clothes, food packaging, cribs, and firefighting foam. However, scientists argue that more action is needed to regulate PFAS levels in water systems, remove existing PFAS, and prevent future contamination.
Addressing the Challenges
PFAS contamination poses an additional layer of danger to communities already struggling with environmental damage. The burden of initiating remediation should not fall solely on disadvantaged neighborhoods. The federal government’s plan to tackle PFAS contamination includes a grant program for these communities.
Further research is necessary to fully understand the harmful effects of PFAS and develop sustainable methods for removing these toxins from drinking water. As states consider reusing wastewater to replenish groundwater supplies, it is crucial to address the increased PFAS toxicity in water sources.
The findings of the USGS study highlight the urgent need for action and should not be ignored.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
- SDG 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators. However, potential indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets include:
- Concentration levels of PFAS in drinking water supplies
- Number of communities with PFAS contamination above recommended levels
- Number of regulations and bans implemented to reduce PFAS exposure
- Number of studies conducted on the health effects of PFAS contamination
- Extent of PFAS contamination in different ethnic communities
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials. | – Concentration levels of PFAS in drinking water supplies – Number of communities with PFAS contamination above recommended levels |
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | – Number of studies conducted on the health effects of PFAS contamination – Extent of PFAS contamination in different ethnic communities |
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. | – Concentration levels of PFAS in marine ecosystems |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services. | – Extent of PFAS contamination in terrestrial ecosystems |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: latimes.com
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