EPA Research Partner Support Story: State-federal dialogue and presentations on evolving PFAS science
Partners: Environmental Council of the States (ECOS), Environmental Research Institute of the States (ERIS), Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and member states, and Tribes
Challenge: Understand PFAS science & technology challenges in environmental media
Resource: State-Tribal-federal dialogue and presentations on evolving PFAS science
Project Period: 2017 ‒ Present
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used for more than 60 years to make plastics, firefighting foams, and lubricants, and to help make products stain-resistant, waterproof, and nonstick. Addressing and managing PFAS in the environment is one of the most pressing issues facing EPA, states and regions.
“State-federal dialogue is critical to better understanding the science surrounding complex and multifaceted issues like PFAS. These calls are an example of the coordination necessary to foster research and technical capabilities.” – ERIS Board member David Paylor (former Director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality)
EPA hosts a bimonthly call with the Environmental Council of the States (ECOS, the national association of state environmental agency leaders) and the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO, the national association of state and territorial chief health officials) and interested state and Tribal representatives on PFAS. These calls are an opportunity for EPA scientists and our state partners to share evolving PFAS science. Topics include analytical methods, human health and toxicity, site characterization, exposure, remediation, and treatment work. Both states and EPA present on a wide range of topics. More than 40 states regularly participate on these calls.
EPA ORD has gained a better understanding of the science needed to address real-world PFAS environmental challenges. This has helped us provide innovative and multidisciplinary research to underpin decisions and help develop science-based tools and resources that states and Tribes can use to protect human health and the environment. Joint efforts like our work with ECOS and ASTHO strengthen the alignment of EPA’s scientific and technical capabilities with state needs and have better connected EPA and state scientists to help fill knowledge gaps. EPA scientists will continue to collaborate with our state and Tribal partners as PFAS research continues to expand.
For more information, please visit PFAS Resources for States and EPA’s PFAS Research website.