Monday, November 21, 2022

Understanding PFAS contamination - C.A.R.E.

This presentation will be held from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at

White Oak Library's Lockport Branch
121 East 8th Street
Lockport, IL 60441

There are approximately 5,000 PFAS chemicals, and they are found in many different consumer, commercial, and industrial products.  This has resulted in PFAS being released into the air, water and soil (1,2).

Because the components of PFAS break down very slowly over time, they bioaccumulate in the natural environment and in the human body.  Hence PFAS has acquired the nickname "forever chemicals."  Exposure to PFAS is via ingestion, inhalation, and absorption through the skin.

Over 8 million Illinoisans have PFAS chemicals in their drinking water supply.  This concern has led the Illinois Pollution Control Board (IPCB) to consider establishing PFAS groundwater standards for our state.
 

To see the PFAS levels that were measured in groundwater and surface water samples recently taken throughout Illinois, you can use IEPA's PFAS Investigation Network Interactive Dashboard and Map.

What does this mean for Will County?  Look for the yellow and red markers on the map around Romeoville, Crest Hill, and Joliet, which indicate significant exceedances beyond the current Illinois EPA Guidance Level (3).
 

Consider thhis presentation your opportunity to ask questions and learn more on ways to reduce your exposure to PFAS.

• in the month of November
• in HHW