Often referred to as "forever chemicals", per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present in many everyday products such as food packaging, pans, makeup, clothing, and drinking water. Despite their intended purpose being resistance to water, heat, oil, and stains, these chemicals have several potential health risks. Environmental justice focuses on the fair treatment of all people in environmental policy, and it must be considered when addressing PFAS. PFAS contamination is disproportionately distributed due to a history of discrimination, segregation, and a lack of political power.
It is important to consider environmental justice when considering environmental policies such as PFA regulation. For example, "the sociodemographic groups that are often stressed by other factors, including marginalization, racism, and poverty, are also more highly exposed to PFAS in drinking water" (Harvard School of Public Health). Environmental justice highlights how these communities are not only more exposed, but also less prepared to respond to these issues due to a lack of political power, underinvestment, and inadequate infrastructure.
Marginalized communities, especially Black, Hispanic/Latino, and low-income populations, are disproportionately affected by PFAS contamination due to a combination of environmental, political, and social factors. For example, research shows that "Community water systems contaminated with PFAS serve greater proportions of Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic Black populations..." (Liddie, Schaider, and Sunderland). Communities of color are increasingly more likely to receive contaminated drinking water, and this puts them at a higher risk of long-term health effects.
In the U.S., many government agencies have taken steps to address contamination from PFAS through new regulations, funding programs, and enforcement efforts. To start, "in March, the EPA proposed the first-ever national drinking water regulation for six PFAS..." (Environmental Protection Agency). The EPA also allocated funding that "will be made available to communities as grants through EPA's Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities grant program" (Environmental Protection Agency).