What Are Forever Chemicals?
Forever chemicals, scientifically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are a group of synthetic chemicals that resist water, grease, and heat. They’ve been used in various products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foam.
PFAS are termed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment or the human body. Instead, they accumulate over time, leading to long-term exposure risks.
In the Charlotte area, concerns about PFAS contamination in drinking water have been growing due to upstream industrial discharges and local landfills leaching these chemicals into waterways.
Health Impacts of Drinking Water with PFAS
Research has linked PFAS exposure to a variety of serious health conditions, including:
- Increased cancer risk: Studies suggest associations between PFAS exposure and kidney, liver, and testicular cancers.
- Immune system effects: PFAS may weaken the body’s ability to fight infections and reduce vaccine efficacy.
- Developmental issues: Pregnant women exposed to PFAS could face complications, and PFAS may impair fetal development.
- Thyroid dysfunction: PFAS disrupt hormone function, contributing to thyroid diseases.
- Increased cholesterol levels: Chronic PFAS exposure has been linked to higher cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease.
While federal agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have recently set stricter guidelines for PFAS levels in drinking water, compliance and enforcement are ongoing challenges for municipalities like Charlotte.
How PFAS Affects Charlotte’s Water Supply
Charlotte sources its drinking water from local reservoirs such as Lake Norman, Mountain Island Lake, and the Catawba River. These water bodies are vulnerable to contamination from industrial activities, urban runoff, and wastewater discharges.
Companies with operations in North Carolina, have been a significant source of PFAS contamination in the state. Their discharges, primarily impacting the Cape Fear River Basin, highlight how pollutants can travel downstream, affecting drinking water supplies in cities like Charlotte.
Charlotte Water has begun proactive testing for PFAS in the municipal water supply. While current levels are generally within safe limits, continued industrial discharges and stricter EPA guidelines could necessitate advanced filtration systems to remove PFAS.
What’s Being Done About PFAS in Charlotte?
- Federal Action: The EPA recently established a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for PFAS in drinking water, requiring utilities to monitor and address contamination by 2029.
- State Initiatives: North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is taking steps to monitor and mitigate PFAS pollution, including lawsuits against polluters and funding for advanced water treatment projects.
- Local Testing and Upgrades: Charlotte Water is ramping up PFAS testing and exploring technologies such as granular activated carbon (GAC) filters and reverse osmosis systems to treat contaminated water.
- Legislation: North Carolina has introduced bills like HB 864, aiming to hold polluters financially accountable for cleanup costs.
What You Can Do as a Charlotte Resident
- Stay Informed: Regularly review water quality reports from Charlotte Water.
- Consider Home Filtration Systems: Artisanal Water Solutions Whole-house filtration systems and reverse osmosis units can effectively reduce PFAS levels in your home.
- Support Advocacy Groups: Join organizations advocating for cleaner water and stricter regulations on industrial polluters.
Final Thoughts
Forever chemicals pose a significant challenge to maintaining safe, clean drinking water in Charlotte and beyond. While federal, state, and local governments are making strides to address PFAS contamination, awareness and proactive measures by individuals are essential. By staying informed and advocating for effective solutions, Charlotte residents can help ensure healthier water for their families and future generations.
Artisanal Water Solutions was founded with a passion for clean, safe water. Locally owned & operated the company specializes in providing customizable water filtration solutions tailored to address the unique water quality challenges in the Charlotte, NC region. From industrial pollutants like PFAS (forever chemicals) to high sediment levels and chlorine content, we design systems that meet the specific needs of local homes and businesses.
The company’s mission is to deliver cutting-edge technology and exceptional service to empower Charlotte residents to enjoy cleaner, healthier water while contributing to a more sustainable future. By staying informed on regional water issues and leveraging the latest filtration innovations, we ensure every solution is as effective as it is environmentally responsible.
If you’re interested in clean water in your home – schedule a free, no-obligation in-home water analysis with an Artisanal Water local expert.
Call (704) 315-6344 or fill out our contact form.
