In the journey for a cleaner and equitable future, humans created a problem for environmental health and social justice. A problem known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Because PFAS isn't able to decompose in the environment or the human, PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" and have invaded every aspect of modern life.
A recent investigation by The Guardian showed us that healthy wetlands across the country are being filled with sewage effluent with high levels of PFAS. Effluent is the liquid put out by wastewater treatment after it "disinfects" sewage in the United States' sewer system. Although shown as an eco-friendly solution to water shortage and ecosystem repair, this wastewater, which contains PFAS, ends up leaving the chemicals back into the soil and groundwater.
In Baltimore, researchers at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) have been studying PFAS levels in local waterways. According to their research, regions with a history of inadequate investment and social inequity have a concerning high amount of PFAS.
In 2023, chemical firm 3M agreed to a $10.3 billion agreement involving PFAS pollution in drinking water nationwide. According to The New York Times, this case was one of the largest environmental agreements ever.