EPA Proposes Expansion of PFAS Chemical Reporting for Pollution Prevention
The EPA proposes adding over 100 PFAS chemicals to the Toxics Release Inventory to enhance public reporting and pollution prevention efforts.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Oct 06, 2024
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to broaden the scope of chemicals that are reported under the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI).
According to a recent release, the move would add 16 individual per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and 15 PFAS categories—representing more than 100 individual compounds—to the inventory. The proposed regulations, if approved, would require facilities to report on the release and management of these "forever chemicals," even in small amounts.
PFAS, known for their environmental and health risks, have been linked to severe health issues such as cancer, liver and kidney damage, and reproductive issues. The proposed changes are part of the EPA’s efforts to advance the Biden administration’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap, focusing on pollution prevention, environmental justice and improving public health data.
“With this rule, EPA would be able to collect data on how more than a hundred PFAS are released into the environment through Toxics Release Inventory reporting requirements,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “This information will help EPA and communities better understand how PFAS are being used and managed across the country.”
The new rule proposes a reporting threshold of 100 pounds for PFAS, consistent with prior PFAS regulations under the National Defense Authorization Act of 2020. Facilities will also have to account for all PFAS in a given category to meet reporting requirements. Public comments on the proposed rule will be accepted for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor for Environmental Protection.