Clean water is something most Americans expect when they turn on the faucet, but a group of pollutants known as PFAS is raising new concerns about what may be hiding in our water.
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in products designed to resist water, grease, and stains. The problem is that these chemicals do not easily break down, allowing them to remain in the environment for long periods of time and contaminate water supplies.
Recently, efforts to address PFAS pollution have increased across the country. In June 2026, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed program that would require public water systems to monitor 30 currently unregulated contaminants, including certain PFAS. The information collected could help scientists understand where these pollutants are appearing and guide future drinking-water protections.
There has also been a growing push to hold companies responsible for contamination. In June, the EPA and other government agencies announced a settlement with chemical manufacturer Chemours worth more than $450 million in penalties and pollution-control measures. The EPA alleged that PFAS had been released into major waterways, including the Cape Fear, Delaware, and Ohio Rivers. Just this month, a federal judge also approved more than $2.5 billion in PFAS-related settlements between New Jersey and several major chemical manufacturers.
These developments show why preventing water pollution at its source matters. Cleaning contaminated water can be incredibly expensive, and some pollutants can remain in the environment for decades. Strong monitoring, responsible disposal, improved treatment technology, and accountability for polluters can all help protect waterways.
Water connects every community. Protecting it today means protecting both people and ecosystems for generations to come.
Diya Comar