Uncovering Hidden Threats: PFAS Contamination in Pesticides
Per- and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAS), which are often called “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to breaking down in the environment over time, have been detected in a wide range of consumer products, fire fighting foams, industrial chemicals, and other materials. These chemicals are being widely detected in wastewater, drinking water, and in humans. PFAS are hormone-disrupting chemicals, so the materials are a growing health concern. Another potential source of these chemicals, which has been the subject of recent research, is pesticides.
A newly-released study in Environmental Health Perspectives reports that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may be more widely present in pesticide products than previously understood.
Although the question of PFAS in pesticide products has previously been assessed, prior studies, such as such as prior EPA research, have evaluated a smaller number of pesticide products, and have evaluated PFAS leaching potential due to the container fluorination process. The new study evaluated the full list of pesticidal active ingredients approved by the US EPA. Out of 471 identified conventional active pesticide ingredients, 14% met the definition of PFAS as defined by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The study also determined that 30% of conventional active ingredients approved by the US EPA in the past decade met the OECD definition of PFAS.
The study also evaluated the potential for PFAS in adjuvants (materials used to enhance the delivery or effectiveness of pesticides, e.g. by coating leaves more fully) and “inert” ingredients. Although only limited fluorination of these materials was noted in the study, this was noted as an area for further research.
As of July 8, 2024, the US EPA’s list of hazardous substances under CERCLA now includes two major PFAS compounds, perfluoroctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which have been found in aqueous fire-fighting foams (AFFF), are used in industrial processes, and have historically been used in a wide variety of consumer products. But there are several thousand more PFAS compounds beyond those two – and beyond the handful that are currently regulated under the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act and various state regulatory programs. This new information is a reminder that research into PFAS compounds beyond PFOS and PFOA is still in the early days, and major findings are still being uncovered.
How VERTEX Can Help
Since 2018, VERTEX has been assisting clients in identifying, assessing, and managing PFAS-related risks through comprehensive environmental claims consulting, environmental due diligence services, which helps manage PFAS-related liabilities and regulatory compliance in property transactions and development, and expert witness services. We also offer specialized fire protection and life safety consulting, specific to PFAS foam retrofits. Our team delivers effective, sustainable, and cost-efficient solutions across various sectors. For more information on VERTEX’s services or to speak with an expert, call 888.298.5162 or submit an inquiry below.
