You may have heard the term “forever chemicals,” but what exactly are they—and why are they a major concern for communities, utilities, and environmental regulators?
Forever chemicals refer to a class of synthetic compounds known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which were developed for their fire and heat-resistant properties and durability. These chemicals have been used for decades in everything from non-stick cookware and food packaging to personal care products and water-repellent fabrics.
The issue? Over time, researchers discovered that PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and the human body. They don’t break down easily, and accumulating evidence has linked them to serious health issues, including cancer. The term “forever” is no exaggeration—these chemicals can remain in soil and water for decades, creating long-term contamination concerns.
Wastewater and biosolids have become a focal point in the effort to identify and manage PFAS contamination. Facilities near airports and fire training sites are especially vulnerable, as firefighting foams used as part of training exercises seep into groundwater and surface water, creating localized hot spots. In some cases, testing has revealed PFAS in dairy farms, where contamination from nearby manufacturing led to the loss of livestock and land becoming unusable for years.
Landfills present another major challenge. Leachate—the liquid that drains or “leaches” from landfills—can collect and spread PFAS compounds due to the wide range of consumer and industrial products disposed of there. Without effective treatment, these chemicals can cycle back into wastewater systems and accumulate in biosolids, perpetuating the contamination.
So what’s being done?
Navitas is actively working with clients across multiple sectors to address this complex and evolving issue. For some clients, the focus is on testing biosolids to demonstrate they are safe and meet current regulatory standards. This approach helps mitigate public concern while keeping operations running smoothly.
For others, Navitas is helping explore and implement emerging treatment technologies. These systems are designed to break down or capture PFAS from wastewater and landfill leachate. Historically, these technologies were cost-prohibitive, which led many organizations to take a “wait-it-out” approach—hoping public attention would shift to other issues. But with new biosolids regulations emerging (like the bans in Maine and proposed moratoriums in states like New York), proactive solutions are more critical than ever.
In addition to on-the-ground support, Navitas is also involved with professional and regulatory associations, helping to educate stakeholders and advocate for science-based approaches. By staying at the forefront of both policy and technology, Navitas ensures its clients are prepared to manage risk and protect their communities.
Forever chemicals may be persistent—but with informed strategies and committed partners, they don’t have to define our future.
You can also learn more at https://www.wef.org/topics/hot-topics/PFAS/
About the author – Bob Wimmer brings nearly 25 years of experience providing wastewater treatment optimization and design with a focus on energy optimization and biosolids management. He can be reached at bwimmer@navitas.us.com.