EPA designates two ‘forever chemicals' as hazardous substances

The US Environmental Protection Agency has designated two common chemicals as hazardous substances under the Superfund law. The move empowers the EPA to investigate and clean up leaks and spills involving these “forever chemicals” and hold polluters accountable for the clean-up costs. The chemicals, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), belong to a larger group known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS). PFAS are persistent in the environment and human body and have been linked to various health issues. The EPA’s action is part of broader efforts to address PFAS contamination.