Category: PFAS Contamination

  • New Study Finds Microplastics in Nearly Every Water Source Tested — What This Means for Americans in 2026

    New Study Finds Microplastics in Nearly Every Water Source Tested — What This Means for Americans in 2026

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    For years, scientists suspected that microplastics — tiny fragments shed from clothing, packaging, tyres, and everyday plastic products — were making their way into rivers and lakes. But new 2026 findings from multiple U.S. research groups are drawing a clearer picture than ever before: microplastics are being detected in nearly every major water source tested, from urban rivers to rural wells to the reservoirs that supply drinking water to millions of Americans.

    The discovery isn’t cause for panic. Treatment plants continue to meet strict safety standards, and microplastics remain a developing area of research rather than a regulated contaminant. But the new data is raising important questions about how these particles move through the environment — and what their growing presence means for water systems already under strain from climate shifts, population growth, and aging infrastructure.

    The story of microplastics in 2026 isn’t one of sudden danger.
    It’s a story of a complex material quietly appearing everywhere we look.

    A New Wave of Research Shows Widespread Detection

    In 2025 and early 2026, university labs, state agencies, and environmental research organisations conducted expanded testing across multiple states. The goal wasn’t to assess health risk — there isn’t enough scientific consensus for that — but to understand how far these tiny particles have spread.

    The answer, researchers now say, is: almost everywhere.

    Microplastics were detected in:

    • surface water systems feeding major cities,
    • groundwater wells in agricultural regions,
    • reservoirs affected by heavy rainfall,
    • rivers downstream of industrial areas,
    • and even in waterways flowing through protected natural landscapes.

    Many of the detected particles measured less than a millimetre. Some were so small they required advanced microscopy and new filtering techniques to identify.

    While quantities vary widely depending on location and season, the consistent finding is unmistakable: microplastics have become a routine part of modern water environments.

    Where Are These Tiny Particles Coming From?

    The path microplastics take into the environment isn’t always obvious.

    Some originate from urban life — the fibres released when synthetic clothing is washed, or dust from tyre wear on busy roads. Others come from the breakdown of larger plastic items exposed to sunlight and weather. Stormwater carries these fragments into rivers and lakes. Wind blows them across fields. Floodwaters sweep them into reservoirs.

    In coastal states, stronger storms and tidal surges have accelerated the movement of microplastic debris into freshwater systems. In inland regions, heavy rainfall events and flash flooding can send large pulses of runoff into streams.

    None of this points to a single “problem source.”
    It reflects how thoroughly plastic is woven into daily life.

    Why Treatment Plants Don’t Remove All Microplastics

    Modern treatment plants are designed to remove harmful microbes, sediment, metals, and chemical contaminants — not particles as small as many microplastics. Some larger microplastic fragments are captured during sedimentation or filtration. But the smallest particles can pass through conventional systems because they behave differently from traditional contaminants.

    It’s not a failure of technology.
    It’s that the technology was never designed for something that didn’t exist at meaningful levels when these plants were built.

    The EPA currently does not regulate microplastics in drinking water, and scientific studies to understand their long-term impacts are still underway.

    For now, utilities continue to meet all federal safety standards — standards that focus on known risks supported by decades of research.

    What This Means for Households

    Microplastics in water don’t change the taste, smell, or appearance of tap water. Most people would never know they were there without laboratory testing. Public health experts continue to emphasise that there is no evidence of acute health risks, and research is ongoing worldwide to understand their significance.

    Still, the presence of microplastics has led many households to ask what they can do if they want additional peace of mind.

    Home filtration systems that use advanced membranes — especially reverse osmosis systems — can reduce a wide range of extremely small particles, including some microplastics, as part of their normal operation. This is not a safety requirement, but a personal choice for those who want the most refined water possible.

    A Changing Landscape for Water Research

    If there’s one clear message from the new 2026 findings, it’s this: microplastics are now part of the water cycle, moving through rivers, lakes, and groundwater in ways scientists are only beginning to map.

    Researchers are focusing not on fear, but on understanding:

    • How these particles move through ecosystems
    • How often they appear in drinking water
    • Whether new treatment methods can target them
    • And how stormwater and weather patterns influence their spread

    Water agencies and regulators are watching these developments closely. While current evidence does not justify new regulations, the increasing presence of microplastics in the environment highlights the need for continued monitoring and research.

    This is less a story about risk — and more a story about awareness, science, and the modern materials that travel further than most people realise.

    CleanAirAndWater.net will continue following developments throughout 2026 and providing clear, accessible updates as new research emerges.

    Sources & Notes

    1. USGS – Microplastics in Freshwater Systems
    https://www.usgs.gov/news/national-news-release/microplastics-freshwater-environments

    2. NOAA Marine Debris Program – Microplastics Research
    https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/

    3. American Chemical Society – Environmental Science & Technology Microplastics Studies
    https://pubs.acs.org/journal/esthag

    4. EPA – Research on Emerging Contaminants (Microplastics)
    https://www.epa.gov/water-research/microplastics

    5. State Geological Surveys (sample regions)
    California: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/
    Texas: https://www.twdb.texas.gov/
    Colorado: https://dwr.colorado.gov/
    (Referenced for regional sampling and study participation.)

    6. National Academies of Sciences – Microplastics Workshop Summary
    https://www.nationalacademies.org/

    Note: This article is informational and does not provide medical or legal advice

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    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • Water Safety Advocates Worry EPA Might Weaken New “Forever Chemical” Rules

    Water Safety Advocates Worry EPA Might Weaken New “Forever Chemical” Rules

    Environmental groups are concerned that new protections for drinking water could be rolled back before they even take effect.

    Last year felt like a big win for clean water. After decades of waiting, the Environmental Protection Agency finally announced rules to limit dangerous “forever chemicals” called PFAS in drinking water.

    Families in contaminated communities celebrated. Environmental groups called it historic. It seemed like help was finally coming for people who had been drinking polluted water for years.

    But now, some advocates are worried that these new protections might not last. They’re concerned that pressure from water companies and chemical manufacturers could convince the EPA to change their minds before the rules even go into effect.

    What Are Forever Chemicals?

    PFAS got the nickname “forever chemicals” because they never break down in nature. Companies use them to make non-stick pans, waterproof jackets, and food containers. But scientists have learned that these chemicals can cause cancer, liver problems, and other serious health issues.

    These substances are particularly scary because once they get into the environment or your body, they stay there basically forever. That plastic food container you microwaved last week? If it had PFAS in it, those chemicals could still be in your system years from now.

    Why the EPA’s 2024 Rules Mattered

    In April 2024, the EPA made a big announcement. They were going to require water companies to limit six types of PFAS chemicals in public drinking water.

    The new rules said water companies would have to keep the two most dangerous types – PFOA and PFOS – below 4 parts per trillion. That’s an incredibly tiny amount, but researchers say even small amounts can hurt people over time.

    Water companies got until 2029 to install equipment that can remove these chemicals from their water systems.

    EPA Administrator Michael Regan said at the time, “Drinking water contaminated with PFAS has plagued communities across this country for too long.”

    Why Advocates Are Worried Now

    According to reports from the Environmental Working Group and other environmental organizations, they are watching carefully to see what happens to these new rules. They’ve seen this pattern before – strong environmental protections get announced, then get weakened or delayed when businesses complain.

    Their concerns come from several sources:

    Industry pushback: Water industry associations have expressed concerns about how expensive it will be to follow the new rules. Some say it could cost billions of dollars to install the right equipment.

    Political changes: Environmental rules often change when different political parties take control of government agencies.

    Historical patterns: Many environmental protections have been weakened or eliminated in the past when industries argued they were too costly.

    David Andrews, a scientist with the Environmental Working Group, has stated he’s concerned about any potential weakening of what he considers a major public health victory.

    How Much Could It Cost to Clean PFAS?

    The biggest concern raised about the PFAS rules is cost. Water industry groups say removing these chemicals will be incredibly expensive.

    The EPA estimated it would cost about $1.5 billion per year for all water companies nationwide to comply. But water industry associations estimate the real cost could be much higher – maybe $2.5 to $3.2 billion every year.

    That sounds like a lot of money. But consider this: Americans spend over $4 trillion every year on healthcare, according to government statistics. If PFAS chemicals are making people sick, cleaning up the water might actually save money on medical bills in the long run.

    There’s also a question about who should pay. Should it be the families who drink the water, or the chemical companies that made these pollutants in the first place?

    What Could Happen

    According to EWG reports, advocates worry about several possible scenarios:

    Delayed deadlines: Instead of 2029, water companies might get until 2031 or later to clean up their systems.

    Weaker limits: The EPA might decide to only regulate the two worst chemicals instead of all six.

    Loopholes: New rules might include exceptions that let some water companies avoid the requirements.

    Enforcement problems: Even if the rules stay the same, they might not be enforced strictly.

    None of these things have happened yet. But environmental groups say they’re watching for warning signs and preparing to fight any attempts to weaken the protections.

    Why This Matters to Families

    If the PFAS rules get weakened, millions of Americans could continue drinking contaminated water for years longer than necessary.

    These chemicals are already showing up in water systems serving major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and many smaller communities. Without strong federal rules, most water companies probably won’t spend the money to remove PFAS on their own.

    That means families would keep drinking water with chemicals that scientists know can cause health problems, just because cleaning it up costs too much money.

    What People in Affected Communities Say

    Emily Donovan lives in Wilmington, North Carolina, where PFAS contamination has been a major problem. She’s been fighting for clean water for years.

    “We learned about GenX and other PFAS in our tap water six years ago,” Donovan said in a statement to Clean Cape Fear, an advocacy organization. “I raised my children on this water and watched loved ones suffer from rare or recurrent cancers. No one should ever worry if their tap water will make them sick or give them cancer.”

    People in communities like hers are worried that just when help seemed to be coming, it might get taken away again.

    What Advocates Are Doing

    Environmental groups aren’t just sitting around worrying. They’re taking action to try to protect the new PFAS rules:

    Monitoring: They’re watching closely for any signs that the EPA might weaken the standards.

    Lobbying: They’re talking to politicians and government officials to explain why strong PFAS limits are important.

    Public campaigns: They’re trying to keep public attention focused on the issue so it doesn’t get forgotten.

    Legal preparation: If the rules do get weakened, some groups are preparing to challenge those changes in court.

    How to Take Action as a Family

    This might seem like a problem that’s too big for ordinary families to influence, but that’s not true. Environmental rules often change based on how much attention the public pays to them.

    Here’s what people can do:

    Stay informed: Pay attention to news about PFAS rules and water quality in your area.

    Contact representatives: Call or write to your senators and representatives in Congress. Tell them you want strong protections for drinking water.

    Support advocacy groups: Organizations like the Environmental Working Group need public support to keep fighting for clean water.

    Test your water: If you’re worried about PFAS in your area, you can get your water tested to see what’s actually in it.

    🔗 Want to check if your city’s water is affected? Use our national tap water database to see what contaminants have been detected in your local water system and get personalized filtration recommendations.

    Looking at History

    Environmental advocates have good reason to be worried. History shows that environmental protections often face challenges after they’re announced.

    Rules to protect air quality, limit toxic chemicals, and preserve natural areas have all been weakened or eliminated in the past when industries complained about costs.

    The original PFAS limits only happened because communities affected by contamination fought for years to get government attention. Those same communities are now worried they might have to start fighting all over again.

    What Happens Next

    Right now, the PFAS rules announced in April 2024 are still official policy. Water companies are supposed to start working toward the 2029 deadline.

    But advocates will be watching carefully for any signs of change. They know that environmental protections can disappear quietly if people aren’t paying attention.

    The next few months will be important for seeing whether the promise of cleaner water will actually become reality or whether it will become another promise that gets broken when it becomes inconvenient.

    The Bottom Line

    The fight for clean drinking water isn’t over just because good rules get announced. Those rules have to survive political pressure, industry complaints, and changing government priorities.

    Environmental advocates are worried that the historic PFAS limits announced last year might not survive these challenges. They’re working to make sure that families who have been waiting decades for clean water don’t have to keep waiting.

    For millions of families already drinking PFAS-contaminated water, the stakes couldn’t be higher. They finally got a promise of help — and now they must fight to make sure that promise gets kept.

    Note: This article discusses concerns raised by environmental advocacy groups about potential challenges to EPA’s 2024 PFAS drinking water standards. As of publication, the EPA has not announced any official changes to these regulations. This analysis is based on publicly available statements from advocacy groups, industry associations, and government sources.

    Sources: Information based on EPA press releases, Environmental Working Group analysis, public statements from advocates, and government healthcare spending data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

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    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • Scientists Find Plastic Particles in Antarctic Snow – There’s Literally Nowhere Left to Hide

    Scientists Find Plastic Particles in Antarctic Snow – There’s Literally Nowhere Left to Hide

    If you thought you could escape microplastics by moving to the most remote place on Earth, think again. New research shows these tiny particles have reached literally every corner of our planet.

    Picture the most isolated, pristine place you can imagine. Maybe it’s the top of a mountain where no human has ever set foot. Or perhaps it’s the middle of the ocean, thousands of miles from the nearest city.

    Now imagine that even there – in the purest, most untouched places on Earth – scientists are finding tiny pieces of plastic from your old water bottles, food containers, and shopping bags.

    That’s exactly what researchers discovered when they tested fresh snow in Antarctica. Even at the bottom of the world, in places where no plastic has ever been manufactured or thrown away, these microscopic particles are falling from the sky like invisible confetti.

    The Discovery That Changed Everything

    Dr. Alex Aves from the University of Canterbury was studying snow samples in Antarctica when she made a discovery that surprised even her. Using powerful microscopes, her team found an average of 29 microplastic particles in every liter of snow they tested.

    Twenty-nine pieces of plastic. In every liter. In Antarctica.

    “It’s incredibly sad but finding microplastics in fresh Antarctic snow highlights the extent to which we’ve polluted our planet,” Dr. Aves told reporters after the study was published.

    The particles were tiny – most smaller than the width of a human hair. But they were definitely there, and they were definitely plastic.

    How Did Plastic Get to Antarctica?

    Here’s where the story gets really wild. Antarctica doesn’t have any cities, factories, or garbage dumps. The closest major population centers are thousands of miles away across some of the roughest oceans on the planet.

    So how did plastic particles from your neighborhood end up in Antarctic snow?

    The answer is both simple and terrifying: they flew there.

    When plastic breaks down, it doesn’t disappear – it just gets smaller and smaller until the pieces are light enough to float through the air like dust. These microscopic fragments can travel on wind currents for thousands of miles, crossing oceans and continents before finally falling back to Earth.

    Think about it like this: that plastic water bottle you threw away last month could have broken down into millions of invisible pieces. Some of those pieces might have blown around your city for weeks. Others could have gotten caught up in air currents and traveled around the world.

    Eventually, some of those particles might fall as “plastic snow” in places where no human has ever even visited.

    The Global Plastic Highway

    Scientists are now discovering that Earth’s atmosphere has become like a highway system for plastic particles. These tiny fragments get picked up by wind in one place and can travel incredible distances before coming down somewhere else.

    Researchers have found microplastics in:

    • Mountain peaks in the Pyrenees (hundreds of miles from the nearest city)
    • Remote islands in the Pacific Ocean
    • Arctic sea ice thousands of miles from any plastic source
    • Rain falling in national parks
    • And now, Antarctic snow

    Dr. Steve Allen, who studies atmospheric plastic transport, explains it like this: “We’ve created a global plastic cycle. Just like water evaporates and falls as rain, plastic breaks down and travels through the air before settling in places we never expected.”

    What This Means for Wildlife

    Antarctica might seem empty to us, but it’s actually home to millions of animals – penguins, seals, whales, and countless types of birds and sea creatures.

    These animals evolved in one of the cleanest environments on Earth. They never had to deal with pollution or man-made chemicals. But now, even in their pristine home, they’re being exposed to plastic particles.

    Scientists are finding microplastics in:

    • Penguin stomachs
    • Seal tissues
    • Whale blubber
    • Bird eggs
    • Fish that live in Antarctic waters

    The long-term effects are still unknown, but early research suggests these particles can disrupt animals’ digestive systems, hormone levels, and reproductive abilities.

    The Invisible Invasion

    What makes this discovery so unsettling is that microplastics are completely invisible to us. You can’t see them, smell them, or taste them. But they’re everywhere – in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and now even in the snow falling on the most remote places on Earth.

    Recent studies have found microplastics in:

    • Human blood and lungs
    • Tap water around the world
    • Sea salt and honey
    • Beer and bottled water
    • Fresh fruits and vegetables

    In other words, these particles have gotten into literally every part of the global ecosystem. There’s no escaping them anymore.

    How Much Plastic Are We Talking About?

    The numbers are staggering. Scientists estimate that humans have produced over 9 billion tons of plastic since the 1950s. Most of that plastic is still around somewhere – either in landfills, floating in oceans, or broken down into microscopic pieces traveling through the air.

    Every minute, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of plastic enters our oceans. Every year, we produce over 300 million tons of new plastic waste. And almost none of it truly disappears – it just gets smaller and spreads further.

    The plastic water bottle you bought this morning will still exist in some form 500 years from now. It might be broken down into billions of invisible pieces scattered across the planet, but it won’t be gone.

    What Scientists Are Learning

    Researchers studying the Antarctic snow samples made some other disturbing discoveries:

    The particles came from everywhere: Chemical analysis showed the plastic fragments came from all over the world – North America, South America, Australia, and other continents.

    They’re incredibly small: Most particles were smaller than 0.05 millimeters – so tiny that they can get deep into animal tissues and possibly even individual cells.

    They’re diverse: The team found 13 different types of plastic, including pieces from bottles, bags, clothing, and packaging materials.

    The contamination is recent: By comparing snow from different depths, scientists could tell that most of the plastic pollution arrived in just the last few decades.

    The Reality Check

    Dr. Aves and her team want people to understand what this discovery really means: “We’ve fundamentally changed our planet’s atmosphere. Microplastics are now part of the weather system.”

    This isn’t just an environmental problem – it’s a sign that human activity has altered the basic functioning of Earth’s natural systems. We’ve created a new type of pollution that can travel anywhere and settle everywhere.

    The Antarctic discovery proves that there are no “safe” places left on Earth when it comes to plastic pollution. If microplastics can reach the most isolated continent on the planet, they can reach anywhere.

    What This Means for You

    Finding plastic in Antarctic snow doesn’t directly affect your daily life, but it does tell us something important about the world we’re living in.

    Every piece of plastic you’ve ever used – every bottle, bag, container, and wrapper – is still out there somewhere. And increasingly, “somewhere” includes the air around us and the most remote places on Earth.

    The good news is that this problem is entirely human-made, which means it’s something we can actually do something about. We created the global plastic pollution problem, and we can work to solve it.

    Looking Forward

    Scientists studying microplastics say we need to think about this problem differently. Instead of just focusing on cleaning up plastic that’s already out there, we need to dramatically reduce how much new plastic we’re creating in the first place.

    Some researchers are working on plastics that break down completely instead of just getting smaller. Others are developing better ways to capture plastic particles before they spread through the environment.

    But the most important changes might be the simplest ones: using less plastic, reusing what we have, and making sure plastic waste gets properly recycled instead of blowing around in the wind.

    The Bottom Line

    The discovery of microplastics in Antarctic snow is like finding pollution in the last clean place on Earth. It’s a wake-up call that shows how far-reaching the consequences of our plastic use have become.

    Your plastic water bottle might seem like a small thing, but multiply that by billions of people over decades, and you get plastic particles falling like snow on penguins who have never seen a human being.

    It’s a reminder that in our interconnected world, nothing we do stays local anymore. The choices we make in our daily lives can literally end up anywhere on the planet – even places we’ve never been and will never see.

    The next time you’re about to throw away a piece of plastic, remember the scientists in Antarctica, finding fragments of our modern life in the purest snow on Earth. It’s a powerful reminder that on this planet, there really is no “away” to throw things to anymore.

    Research led by Dr. Alex Aves from the University of Canterbury found an average of 29 microplastic particles per liter in fresh Antarctic snow samples. Chemical analysis revealed the particles originated from multiple continents and included 13 different types of plastic. This discovery demonstrates that atmospheric transport can carry microplastics to even the most remote locations on Earth, with potential implications for Antarctic wildlife and ecosystems.

    Check your water now!

    We have translated and compiled water reports on every state in the US, and covered over 100 cities. Find out how good your water is today!

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    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • New Study Finds Bottled Water Contains 60x More Microplastics Than Tap — Should You Be Worried?

    New Study Finds Bottled Water Contains 60x More Microplastics Than Tap — Should You Be Worried?

    So you’ve been buying bottled water thinking you’re making the healthy choice? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but recent research just completely destroyed that assumption. Scientists at Columbia and Rutgers universities dropped a bombshell: the average bottle of water contains around 240,000 microscopic plastic pieces.

    Yeah, that’s not a typo. A quarter of a million tiny plastic particles floating around in what you thought was “pure” water. And get this – your regular tap water has about 60 times fewer plastic particles than the bottled stuff you’re paying premium prices for.

    I’ll be honest, when I first saw these numbers, I thought there had to be some mistake. But multiple studies are all showing the same thing: that plastic bottle is literally contaminating the water inside it with thousands of invisible particles every time you take a sip.

    What This Means for Your Daily Water Habits

    Bottom line: Every time you drink from a plastic bottle, you’re consuming thousands of invisible plastic particles that are small enough to enter your bloodstream.

    Here’s what the research actually found:

    The shocking numbers:

    • Bottled water averages 240,000 plastic particles per liter
    • That’s about 60 times more microplastics than tap water
    • Some bottles tested had up to 400,000 particles per liter
    • 90% of these particles are nanoplastics – so small they can cross into your organs

    What these particles can do:

    • Enter your bloodstream and travel to organs
    • Cross the blood-brain barrier into your brain
    • Pass through the placenta to unborn babies
    • Accumulate in your liver, heart, and other tissues
    • Potentially trigger inflammation and immune responses

    Where the contamination comes from: The plastic isn’t just floating around randomly. Scientists found it’s coming from:

    • The bottle itself, which constantly sheds tiny particles
    • The bottle cap – each twist releases about 500 microplastic particles
    • The reverse osmosis filters used to “purify” the water
    • Heat exposure during shipping and storage

    How This Contamination Actually Happens

    It’s not just about old, beat-up bottles:

    Even brand-new plastic bottles start shedding particles the moment water touches them. The process gets worse when bottles are exposed to heat – like in delivery trucks, warehouses, or your car on a hot day.

    The researchers looked at bottles from major brands (they won’t say which ones yet, but they were common brands you’d find at Walmart) and found contamination across the board. This isn’t a problem with just cheap water – it’s happening with premium brands too.

    The cap problem nobody talks about: Every time you screw and unscrew that plastic cap, you’re creating friction that generates microplastics. Think about how many times you’ve opened and closed a water bottle throughout the day. Each twist is adding more plastic particles to your water.

    Heat makes everything worse: Leave a plastic bottle in your car on a hot day? You’ve potentially tripled the microplastic contamination. The study found bottles exposed to heat can reach over 300,000 particles per liter.

    Even “BPA-free” bottles aren’t safe: Don’t think that “BPA-free” label on your bottle means you’re protected. These bottles still shed other types of plastic particles that we don’t fully understand yet.

    Tap Water: The Surprising Winner

    Here’s something that’ll probably surprise you:

    Multiple studies now show that tap water consistently contains fewer microplastics than bottled water. Water treatment plants are actually pretty good at filtering out these particles, while plastic bottles are constantly adding new ones.

    Why tap water is cleaner:

    • Municipal water treatment removes most microplastics
    • No plastic packaging to contaminate the water
    • Regulated testing for contaminants (unlike bottled water)
    • Glass and metal pipes don’t shed particles like plastic bottles do

    The research backs this up:

    • Studies found tap water averaged about 4,000 particles per liter
    • Bottled water averaged 240,000 particles per liter
    • That’s a 60-fold difference in plastic contamination
    • Even groundwater sources showed less contamination than plastic bottles

    What You Can Actually Do About This

    Stop freaking out and start making better choices:

    The good news is you have options that are both healthier and cheaper:

    Your best bets:

    • Filtered tap water: Install a good carbon filter system and you’ll remove up to 99.9% of microplastics
    • Glass bottles: If you need portable water, glass-bottled brands showed dramatically lower plastic contamination
    • Stainless steel containers: Fill a quality steel bottle with filtered tap water – zero ongoing plastic exposure

    Filters that actually work:

    • Carbon block filters with 1-micron capability
    • Reverse osmosis systems (ironically, the same tech bottled water companies use)
    • Multi-stage filtration systems
    • Avoid basic pitcher filters – they don’t catch microplastics

    If you must use plastic bottles:

    • Keep them cool and out of sunlight
    • Don’t reuse single-use bottles
    • Drink the water before the expiration date
    • Minimize opening and closing the cap

    💡 Action Steps for This Week:

    • Calculate your exposure: How many plastic bottles do you drink per week? Multiply by 240,000 particles
    • Research home filters: Look into certified microplastic removal systems
    • Try tap water: Do a taste test between filtered tap and your usual bottled brand
    • Invest in reusables: Get a quality glass or steel water bottle

    The Health Implications We’re Just Starting to Understand

    What scientists are worried about:

    The thing is, we’re all part of a massive uncontrolled experiment right now. These nanoplastics are so new that researchers are still figuring out what they do to our bodies.

    What we know so far:

    • Microplastics have been found in human blood, lungs, and even placental tissue
    • They can carry other chemicals and toxins into your body
    • Smaller particles (nanoplastics) are more dangerous because they can go anywhere in your body
    • Early studies suggest they might cause inflammation and immune system problems

    The long-term concerns: Scientists are particularly worried about nanoplastics because they’re small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier. That means they could potentially affect brain function, though we don’t know how yet.

    Why this matters for families: If you’re pregnant or have young kids, this research is especially concerning. These particles can cross the placenta and affect developing babies. Kids who grow up drinking primarily bottled water could be exposed to millions of plastic particles during their critical development years.

    The Industry Response (Or Lack Thereof)

    Don’t expect bottled water companies to be helpful:

    When researchers tried to get information from major bottled water brands about their microplastic testing protocols, most gave vague responses about “meeting regulatory requirements.” The problem? There currently aren’t comprehensive regulatory requirements for microplastic testing.

    The marketing vs. reality disconnect: Companies are still marketing bottled water as “pure” and “natural” while selling it in containers that are actively contaminating the product. It’s like selling organic food in pesticide-coated packaging.

    What needs to change: We need mandatory microplastic testing for all bottled water, clear labeling about contamination levels, and industry investment in truly plastic-free packaging alternatives.

    The Financial Reality Check

    You’re paying more for worse water:

    Think about this: you’re spending 1,000 times more for bottled water than tap water, and you’re getting 60 times more plastic contamination in return. That’s not just bad for your health – it’s a terrible deal financially.

    Do the math:

    • Average family spends $500+ per year on bottled water
    • Good home filtration system: $200-500 one-time cost
    • Filtered tap water: Cleaner than bottled, costs pennies per gallon

    Here’s What I Think About All This

    Look, the bottled water industry has been pulling a fast one on all of us for years. They’ve convinced millions of people to pay 1,000 times more for water that’s actually more contaminated than what comes out of their kitchen faucet.

    The crazy part is that the cleanest water was literally sitting in your house this whole time. Filtered tap water beats bottled water in almost every category – it’s cleaner, cheaper, and doesn’t create a mountain of plastic waste.

    Should you panic about every plastic bottle you’ve ever consumed? Absolutely not. But should you think twice before buying your next case of bottled water? Probably.

    The way I see it, this research gives you a perfect excuse to save money and reduce your plastic exposure at the same time. Install a decent filter, get a reusable bottle, and stop paying companies to sell you contaminated water in plastic containers.

    Your health deserves better than 240,000 plastic particles per liter. And honestly? Your wallet does too.

    Sources: Columbia University and Rutgers University nanoplastics research (January 2024), Environmental Working Group microplastics database, Multiple peer-reviewed studies on microplastics in drinking water

    Last Updated: June 30, 2025

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    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


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  • Forever Chemicals from U.S. Military Bases: Cancer Risk in Your Water?

    Forever Chemicals from U.S. Military Bases: Cancer Risk in Your Water?

    You know how we always assume our military has our backs? Well, turns out they’ve been accidentally poisoning communities for decades. And I’m not talking about some conspiracy theory – this is documented, admitted-to contamination that’s affected over 700 military bases across the country.

    What really pisses me off is that families living near these bases – including military families themselves – have been drinking contaminated water without knowing it. We’re talking about people who serve our country, and their kids, getting exposed to cancer-causing chemicals just from turning on the tap.

    The Department of Defense finally came clean about 455 installations with confirmed contamination, but here’s the kicker: they’re still investigating hundreds more. Every state has been hit, and the contamination doesn’t magically stop at the base fence line.

    What This Means If You Live Near a Base

    Bottom line: Your tap water might contain cancer-causing chemicals that came from the military base down the road.

    This contamination problem affects way more people than you might think:

    The numbers are staggering:

    • More than 700 military installations are involved
    • Every state in the country has affected bases
    • Over 600,000 military families have been drinking contaminated water
    • Surrounding civilian communities are also at risk

    Health problems linked to this contamination:

    • Kidney cancer and testicular cancer rates are higher near contaminated bases
    • Liver problems and immune system damage
    • Thyroid disorders affecting metabolism and growth
    • Pregnancy complications and developmental issues in children

    How the contamination spreads beyond base boundaries: Underground water doesn’t respect property lines. These chemicals move through soil and groundwater systems, which means:

    • Your private well could be contaminated even if you’re miles from a base
    • Municipal water systems serving entire towns can be affected
    • Local rivers and streams become contaminated
    • Even the food grown in contaminated soil can contain these chemicals

    The Root of This Contamination Problem

    Where these toxic chemicals came from:

    The military has been using a special firefighting foam for more than 50 years. This foam, known as AFFF, contains PFAS chemicals that make it incredibly effective at smothering fuel fires. Think jet fuel, diesel, gasoline – the kind of fires that happen at military bases and airports.

    The problem is, every time they used this foam in training exercises or real emergencies, those chemicals soaked into the ground. And PFAS chemicals are basically indestructible – they don’t break down naturally like other substances.

    Timeline of the cover-up: What’s really maddening is that this wasn’t an unknown risk. Military documents and company records show:

    • The Navy and 3M Company knew about health risks by the mid-1970s
    • They continued using and promoting these products for decades
    • The military only started phasing out the worst chemicals in 2015
    • Full disclosure to affected communities didn’t happen until recently

    Examples of contamination that’ll shock you:

    • Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada: PFAS levels nearly 15,000 times above safe limits
    • Scott Air Force Base in Illinois: contamination more than 20,000 times EPA standards
    • Fort Campbell in Kentucky: levels over 1,400 times what’s considered safe
    • Pennsylvania bases near Philadelphia: affected 85,000 residents in surrounding counties

    Which States Are Hit the Hardest

    Every state has been affected, but some are dealing with worse contamination:

    High-impact states include:

    • California: Multiple bases including several in areas already dealing with wildfire risks
    • Texas: Contamination near major population centers and industrial areas
    • Virginia: Langley Air Force Base and other installations affecting large communities
    • North Carolina: Multiple bases including areas that also dealt with other industrial PFAS contamination
    • Pennsylvania: Extensive contamination near Philadelphia affecting about 85,000 residents
    • New Hampshire: Pease Air Force Base contamination led to major community health concerns

    Hawaii got hit particularly hard: Five military sites in Hawaii showed up in recent contamination reports, including Pearl Harbor with some of the highest PFAS levels ever recorded.

    States taking action:

    • Massachusetts implemented the nation’s first PFAS cleanup standards for military sites
    • New Hampshire established a restoration advisory board to work with military and state officials
    • Georgia allocated $15 million for immediate remediation efforts
    • Several states have filed lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers

    Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself

    Start with finding out if you’re at risk:

    • Look up your address in relation to nearby military installations (contamination can spread 5-10 miles or more)
    • Call your water company and demand recent PFAS test results – don’t accept vague answers
    • If they haven’t tested recently, ask when they plan to and push for urgent testing
    • Request test results going back several years, not just current data

    For private well owners:

    • Get your well tested by a certified lab that specifically tests for PFAS
    • Standard water tests don’t include PFAS, so you need to specifically request it
    • Testing can cost $300-600, but it’s worth knowing what you’re dealing with
    • Keep all test results – you may need them later for health or legal purposes

    Water protection options:

    • Install a reverse osmosis system certified for PFAS removal (most effective option)
    • Activated carbon filters can help but aren’t as reliable for all PFAS types
    • Avoid basic pitcher filters – they won’t remove PFAS chemicals
    • Remember that boiling contaminated water actually makes the problem worse by concentrating the chemicals

    Stay engaged with your community:

    • Attend town halls or water board meetings where contamination is discussed
    • Connect with neighbors who might also be affected
    • Consider joining or forming a local advocacy group
    • Document any health issues in your family that might be related

    💡 Action Items for This Week:

    • Map check: Use online tools to see if you live near a contaminated military site
    • Water company call: Get your most recent PFAS test results in writing
    • Health inventory: Make a list of any unexplained health issues in your household
    • Filter research: Start looking into certified PFAS removal systems for your home

    What’s Being Done About It

    Federal response: The EPA has established new drinking water standards for PFAS, with limits as low as 4 parts per trillion for some chemicals. Water systems have until 2031 to meet these standards.

    The Department of Defense has:

    • Allocated over $2 billion for PFAS cleanup efforts
    • Started phasing out PFOA and PFOS in firefighting foams (though they still use other PFAS)
    • Begun testing private wells near military installations
    • Provided alternative water sources for some affected communities

    Legal action: Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against companies like 3M, DuPont, and Chemours – the manufacturers of PFAS chemicals. Many of these cases are moving toward potential settlements.

    State-level efforts: Many states have gone beyond federal requirements, setting stricter limits and requiring more extensive testing and cleanup.

    The Uncomfortable Truth About This Mess

    Here’s what really gets me about this whole situation: we’ve got military families – the people who serve our country – who’ve been drinking contaminated water for years without knowing it. And it wasn’t an accident.

    The paperwork shows that the companies making these chemicals and the military using them had a pretty good idea this stuff was dangerous way back in the 1970s. But nobody hit the brakes. Instead, they kept using it for another 40+ years.

    Now you’ve got kids who grew up on military bases developing cancer in their 20s and 30s. You’ve got veterans dealing with health problems they never saw coming. And you’ve got entire communities near these bases wondering if their water is safe to drink.

    What really bothers me is how long it took for this to become public knowledge. It’s 2025, and we’re just now getting serious about testing and cleanup. Meanwhile, people have been getting sick for decades.

    The companies involved are finally starting to pay up – we’re seeing some massive settlements – but that doesn’t undo the damage. And honestly? The cleanup is going to take years, maybe decades.

    If you’re living near one of these bases, you’re probably thinking “great, now what?” I get it. It’s overwhelming. But here’s the thing – you’re not powerless. You can get your water tested. You can install filters. You can make noise with your local officials.

    The military is finally being forced to take responsibility, but they’re moving at military pace (which, let’s be honest, isn’t exactly lightning fast). Don’t wait for them to solve this. Start protecting your family now.

    And if you’re dealing with health issues that might be connected to this contamination? Document everything. Get your blood tested for PFAS levels. Keep records. This fight isn’t over, and you deserve answers.

    Sources: Environmental Working Group military PFAS site database, Department of Defense PFAS Task Force reports, EPA PFAS contamination data

    Last Updated: June 30, 2025

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    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • EPA Data Shows 9,323 Sites Nationwide Have Detectable PFAS Levels – What This Means for Your Family’s Water Safety

    EPA Data Shows 9,323 Sites Nationwide Have Detectable PFAS Levels – What This Means for Your Family’s Water Safety

    If you’ve been wondering whether your tap water is safe to drink, here’s what you need to know about the EPA’s latest findings. The agency just released new data showing that 9,323 sites across the country have detectable levels of toxic “forever chemicals” called PFAS. This affects approximately 165 million Americans who may be drinking contaminated water every day.

    What This Means for You

    Bottom Line: Your drinking water could contain harmful chemicals that never break down in your body or the environment.

    The EPA’s June 2025 data update shows that nearly 3,000 additional sites tested positive for PFAS contamination. This brings the total number of confirmed contaminated locations to 9,323 across all 50 states.

    Here’s what affects you directly:

    • Your family’s exposure: If you live near any of these sites, your drinking water may contain chemicals linked to cancer, liver problems, and immune system damage
    • Timeline: The testing is ongoing through 2025, so more contaminated sites will likely be discovered
    • Your protection: Current federal standards only regulate 6 out of thousands of PFAS chemicals

    This data comes from the EPA’s required testing of water systems under something called UCMR-5. About 75% of the expected test results are now complete.

    Key Details You Should Know

    What the numbers really mean:

    • 9,323 sites have detectable PFAS levels
    • 165 million people potentially affected
    • Testing covers 29 different PFAS chemicals
    • Results show contamination in every state

    What makes this serious:

    • PFAS chemicals never break down naturally
    • They build up in your body over time
    • Scientists call them “forever chemicals” for this reason
    • Even tiny amounts can cause health problems

    The testing process: Water systems serving more than 3,300 people must test their water. The EPA also selected 800 smaller systems for testing. Results get reported quarterly, so we’re still learning the full scope of contamination.

    Background: Why This Is Happening Now

    PFAS chemicals have been used in everyday products since the 1940s. You’ll find them in:

    • Nonstick cookware
    • Waterproof clothing
    • Food packaging
    • Firefighting foam used at airports and military bases

    For decades, companies discharged these chemicals into the environment with little oversight. The EPA has known about health risks for years but only recently started requiring comprehensive testing.

    The current testing program requires water utilities to check for 29 specific PFAS chemicals. Previous testing only looked for a handful of these substances.

    What You Can Do Right Now

    Check your water:

    • Contact your water utility and ask for recent PFAS test results
    • Look up your area on the EPA’s contamination map
    • Request a copy of your water quality report

    Protect your family:

    • Consider installing a water filter certified to remove PFAS
    • Reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters work best
    • Look for NSF certification when choosing filters

    Stay informed:

    • The EPA releases new test results every three months
    • More contaminated sites will likely be discovered through 2025
    • Keep track of updates from your local water utility

    💡 Take Action Now:

    • Call your water company: Ask for PFAS test results
    • Test your water: Consider home testing if you have a private well
    • Consider filtration: Research certified PFAS removal systems

    What Happens Next

    Federal action: The EPA finalized drinking water standards for six PFAS chemicals in 2024. However, the current administration has signaled it may roll back standards for four of these chemicals, keeping regulations only for the two most studied ones (PFOA and PFOS).

    Timeline for compliance:

    • Water systems must complete initial monitoring by 2027
    • Compliance deadline was extended from 2029 to 2031
    • Systems exceeding limits must install treatment or find new water sources

    Ongoing testing: The EPA will continue releasing quarterly updates through 2026. Experts expect the total number of contaminated sites to keep growing as more testing is completed.

    State-level action: Many states are developing their own PFAS regulations that may be stricter than federal standards. Check what your state is doing about PFAS contamination.

    The EPA has allocated $9 billion from federal infrastructure funding specifically to help communities address PFAS contamination. This includes money for treatment systems and technical assistance.

    Bottom Line

    The scale of PFAS contamination in American drinking water is larger than previously known. With 9,323 confirmed contaminated sites affecting 165 million people, this represents one of the most widespread water quality challenges our country faces.

    While the numbers are concerning, you’re not powerless. Understanding your water quality, exploring filtration options, and staying informed about local developments can help protect your family’s health.

    The key is taking action rather than waiting for perfect solutions. As testing continues through 2025, we’ll learn more about the full scope of contamination, but you can start protecting yourself today.

    Check our Water reports HERE to find out your water quality

    Sources: Environmental Protection Agency UCMR-5 data (June 2025), Environmental Working Group PFAS contamination map

    Last Updated: June 26, 2025

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    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • Scientists Develop Iron-Based Filter That Removes PFAS 26 Times Better Than Activated Carbon

    Scientists Develop Iron-Based Filter That Removes PFAS 26 Times Better Than Activated Carbon

    Scientists just made a breakthrough discovery that could revolutionize how we remove “forever chemicals” from drinking water. Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology found that simple iron powder – much cheaper than the activated carbon used in most water filters – removes toxic PFAS chemicals 26 times more effectively per unit of surface area.

    Even better: the iron powder keeps working even after it rusts. Here’s what this could mean for cleaning up our water supply.

    The Discovery That Changes Everything

    Most water filters today use activated carbon to remove PFAS and other contaminants. It works, but it’s expensive and has limitations. Now scientists have discovered that ordinary iron powder – the kind already used in some industrial water treatment – does the job much better.

    The key findings:

    • Iron powder removed 26 times more PFAS per unit surface area than activated carbon
    • The iron powder (called microscale zero-valent iron or mZVI) costs less than activated carbon
    • It still works effectively even after the iron rusts from being in water
    • The rusted iron particles remained “very active” at removing forever chemicals

    Why this matters: This discovery could lead to cheaper, more effective water treatment systems for communities struggling with PFAS contamination. It might also pave the way for better home filtration options.

    How the Research Worked

    Professors Xiaoguang Meng and Christos Christodoulatos, along with Ph.D. student Meng Ji at Stevens Institute of Technology, wanted to find the most efficient way to remove PFOS (one of the most common forever chemicals) from water.

    Their experiment:

    • Compared iron powder directly to activated carbon
    • Tested how well each material removed PFOS from contaminated water
    • Measured the surface area needed for effective removal
    • Published their findings in Environmental Science & Technology in March 2025

    The results were dramatic: The iron powder had a significantly higher removal capacity (21 mg/m²) compared to activated carbon (0.813 mg/m²). Using 10 grams per liter of iron powder reduced PFOS concentrations from 50 mg/L to 6 mg/L within just 8 hours.

    What Makes Iron Powder So Effective

    The scientists discovered that iron powder removes PFAS through a process called adsorption – the same basic process that activated carbon uses, but much more efficiently.

    How it works:

    • PFAS molecules stick to the surface of iron particles
    • The iron provides more effective binding sites than carbon
    • Even when the iron oxidizes (rusts), it maintains its ability to grab forever chemicals

    The surprising rust discovery: Most people would assume that rusty iron wouldn’t work as well. But the research showed that when iron particles develop an iron oxide layer on their surface, they’re still highly effective at removing PFAS.

    “The particles’ surface is covered by iron oxide, but it’s still very active,” said Professor Meng. This unexpected finding has major implications for real-world water treatment systems.

    Why This Discovery Matters

    Current water treatment options for PFAS are expensive and have limitations. This iron-based approach could change that:

    Cost advantages:

    • Iron powder costs significantly less than activated carbon
    • It’s already mass-produced for other industrial uses
    • The fact that it works even when rusty means longer filter life

    Performance benefits:

    • 26 times more effective removal per unit surface area
    • Faster treatment times (8 hours vs. days for some other methods)
    • Works at neutral pH levels (normal water conditions)

    Real-world applications:

    • Could make PFAS treatment affordable for small communities
    • Might lead to better home filtration systems
    • Useful for industrial wastewater treatment

    Current Water Filter Technology

    To understand why this discovery is significant, it helps to know how current PFAS removal works:

    Activated carbon filters:

    • Used in most home and community water systems
    • Work well for longer-chain PFAS like PFOA and PFOS
    • Less effective for shorter-chain PFAS
    • Need frequent replacement as they become saturated
    • Relatively expensive

    Reverse osmosis systems:

    • Very effective at removing PFAS
    • High energy requirements
    • Expensive to install and maintain
    • Waste a lot of water in the process

    Ion exchange systems:

    • Good at removing charged PFAS molecules
    • Require special disposal of used resins
    • More complex to operate

    What This Could Mean for Home Water Treatment

    While this research focused on laboratory conditions, it could eventually lead to improvements in home water filtration:

    Potential benefits:

    • Cheaper filter materials could reduce replacement costs
    • More effective removal might mean smaller, more convenient systems
    • Longer-lasting filters if the iron remains active even when oxidized

    What needs to happen next:

    • Testing with different types of PFAS (the study focused on PFOS)
    • Development of practical filter designs for home use
    • Safety testing to ensure iron particles don’t leach into drinking water
    • Scaling up from laboratory to commercial production

    The Science Behind the Breakthrough

    The researchers used sophisticated testing to understand exactly how the iron powder works:

    Key scientific findings:

    • The removal wasn’t due to chemical breakdown of PFAS (defluorination)
    • It worked through physical adsorption, not chemical bonding
    • Both magnetic and non-magnetic parts of the iron contributed to removal
    • Acid-washing the iron didn’t significantly improve performance

    Why iron works better than carbon: The study suggests that iron provides more effective binding sites for PFAS molecules. The exact mechanism is still being investigated, but the results are clear.

    What Happens Next

    This research has already gained significant attention in the scientific community – the paper has been viewed over 1,000 times since publication in March 2025.

    Immediate next steps:

    • Testing with other types of PFAS beyond PFOS
    • Investigating why the iron works so much better than carbon
    • Developing practical applications for the technology

    Longer-term possibilities:

    • New types of home water filters using iron-based technology
    • Community-scale water treatment systems that are more affordable
    • Industrial applications for cleaning up contaminated sites

    Research expansion: The Stevens team is planning more studies to understand the mechanisms better, which could lead to even more effective treatment methods.

    Current PFAS Treatment Challenges

    This breakthrough comes at a critical time when communities are struggling with PFAS contamination:

    The existing problems:

    • Treatment is expensive, putting it out of reach for many communities
    • Some PFAS chemicals are harder to remove than others
    • Filter materials need frequent replacement
    • Small water systems can’t afford specialized equipment

    What iron powder could solve:

    • Lower costs make treatment accessible to more communities
    • Higher effectiveness means smaller treatment systems
    • Durability could reduce maintenance needs

    Bottom Line: A Game-Changing Discovery

    Scientists at Stevens Institute of Technology have discovered that simple iron powder removes forever chemicals from water 26 times more effectively than the activated carbon used in most current filters. The iron powder is cheaper, works even when it rusts, and could make PFAS treatment accessible to communities that can’t afford current technologies.

    The significance:

    • This could be the breakthrough needed to make PFAS removal affordable and widespread
    • It challenges assumptions about what materials work best for water treatment
    • The discovery that rusty iron still works could simplify maintenance

    What it means for you:

    • Better, cheaper water treatment options may be coming
    • Current activated carbon filters are still your best option today
    • This research shows that innovation in water treatment is accelerating

    Looking ahead: While it will take time to develop commercial applications, this research represents a major step forward in the fight against forever chemicals. It shows that sometimes the best solutions are simpler and cheaper than we expect.

    This discovery gives hope to millions of people dealing with PFAS contamination in their drinking water. As scientists continue to refine this technology, we may finally have an affordable way to clean up one of the most persistent pollution problems of our time.

    Stay Updated

    • Follow ongoing research – Stevens Institute continues testing this technology
    • Current filter options – Activated carbon and reverse osmosis still work today
    • Community advocacy – Support PFAS cleanup efforts in your area
    • Water testing – Know what’s in your water while waiting for better treatment options

    Sources: Stevens Institute of Technology, Environmental Science & Technology journal, ScienceDaily | Last Updated: June 24, 2025

    Check our Water reports HERE to find out your water quality

    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • PFAS Detected in Nearly Half of US Tap Water Samples, New Study Reveals

    PFAS Detected in Nearly Half of US Tap Water Samples, New Study Reveals

    A major new government study just delivered shocking news about what’s coming out of America’s kitchen faucets. Scientists found “forever chemicals” in nearly half of all tap water samples they tested across the country – and it doesn’t matter whether you get your water from the city or have your own private well.

    Here’s what this landmark study found and what it means for your family’s drinking water.

    The Study That Changes Everything

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) just completed the most comprehensive study ever done on forever chemicals in American tap water. What they found will change how you think about the water coming from your faucet.

    The big numbers:

    • At least 45% of tap water samples contained one or more PFAS chemicals
    • Scientists tested water from 716 locations across all 50 states
    • Both public water systems and private wells had similar contamination levels
    • Samples were collected directly from people’s kitchen sinks between 2016 and 2021

    What makes this study different: Previous studies tested water at treatment plants or wells. This time, scientists went straight to people’s homes and collected water right from their kitchen taps – where families actually drink it.

    What Are Forever Chemicals Doing in Our Water?

    PFAS (forever chemicals) have been used in thousands of products for decades. Now they’re everywhere – including your drinking water.

    How they got there:

    • Firefighting foam used at airports and military bases
    • Non-stick cookware and food packaging
    • Waterproof clothing and carpets
    • Industrial manufacturing and waste

    Why they’re called “forever chemicals”: They literally never break down. Once they get into water, soil, or your body, they stay there permanently.

    The health concerns: Studies have linked PFAS exposure to cancer, liver problems, high cholesterol, decreased fertility, and developmental issues in children.

    Your Water Might Be Affected No Matter Where You Live

    The study found forever chemicals everywhere – from big cities to small rural towns, from the East Coast to the West Coast.

    Areas with the highest contamination:

    • Urban areas near industry or airports
    • Great Lakes region
    • Great Plains states
    • Eastern Seaboard
    • Central and Southern California

    But here’s the thing: Even areas with “low” human impact still had contamination. Protected lands and rural areas without known PFAS sources still showed these chemicals in their water.

    No safe haven: The study found that location doesn’t guarantee protection. Whether you live in a major city or rural farmland, your water could contain forever chemicals.

    Private Wells Vs. Public Water: Both Are Affected

    One of the most surprising findings: contamination levels were similar whether people got water from public systems or private wells.

    Public water systems:

    • Regulated by the EPA
    • Required to test and treat for certain contaminants
    • Still had significant PFAS contamination

    Private wells:

    • Not regulated by anyone
    • Homeowners responsible for their own testing and treatment
    • Had just as much contamination as public systems

    What this means: Having your own well doesn’t protect you. Neither does trusting your municipal water company. The contamination is that widespread.

    The Numbers That Should Worry You

    The study tested for 32 different types of PFAS out of over 12,000 known forever chemicals. Even with this limited testing, the results were concerning.

    Most commonly found forever chemicals:

    • PFBS (detected most frequently)
    • PFHxS (also very common)
    • PFOA (the one linked to cancer)

    Concentration levels: Ranged from barely detectable to 346 parts per trillion. For perspective, the EPA says ANY level of PFOA and PFOS is potentially harmful.

    The reality check: Scientists only tested for 32 types of PFAS. There are over 12,000 different forever chemicals, so the actual contamination is likely much worse than what this study found.

    What You Should Do Right Now

    Don’t wait for your water company or the government to fix this problem. Here’s how to protect your family today:

    Find out what’s in your water:

    • Contact your water utility and ask for recent test results
    • If you have a private well, get it tested independently
    • Look up your area on the USGS interactive map of contamination

    Consider water filtration:

    • Reverse osmosis systems remove most PFAS chemicals
    • High-quality activated carbon filters also help
    • Pitcher filters with carbon can reduce some forever chemicals

    Pay special attention if you:

    • Are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
    • Have young children (forever chemicals are especially harmful to developing kids)
    • Live near airports, military bases, or industrial areas
    • Use a private well (you’re entirely on your own for testing and treatment)

    Why This Study Matters More Than Others

    Previous water quality studies had major limitations. This USGS research broke new ground in several important ways:

    Comprehensive scope: First study to compare public and private water supplies on a national scale.

    Real-world testing: Collected water where people actually drink it – from kitchen taps, not treatment plants.

    Geographic coverage: Included urban, rural, and protected areas across all regions of the country.

    Scientific credibility: USGS describes itself as “unbiased and impartial” – they don’t have a political agenda, just the facts.

    The Bigger Picture: This Problem Isn’t Going Away

    Forever chemicals are permanent. Even if we stopped making them today (which we haven’t), they would stay in our water, environment, and bodies indefinitely.

    Current efforts:

    • EPA recently set drinking water limits for some PFAS
    • 3M and other companies are paying billions in settlements
    • Some states are setting their own stricter standards

    The reality: Cleanup will take decades and cost hundreds of billions of dollars. In the meantime, these chemicals will keep contaminating our water supply.

    Your blood is probably contaminated too: CDC studies show that nearly all Americans already have forever chemicals in their blood from years of exposure.

    What Environmental Scientists Are Saying

    Lead researcher Kelly Smalling said this study helps people “understand their risk of exposure” and makes clear that PFAS contamination is a nationwide problem affecting both regulated and unregulated water supplies.

    The scientific consensus: Forever chemicals are one of the most serious environmental health threats we face. They’re everywhere, they’re permanent, and they’re linked to serious health problems.

    The recommendation: Don’t wait for perfect government solutions. Take steps to protect your family now.

    Bottom Line: Nearly Half of America’s Tap Water Contains Forever Chemicals

    This landmark government study confirms what many scientists have suspected: PFAS contamination of drinking water is far more widespread than previously known. Whether you get water from a public system or private well, in a big city or small town, there’s nearly a 50% chance your tap water contains these toxic forever chemicals.

    The truth: Decades of chemical manufacturing have permanently contaminated America’s water supply. Government cleanup efforts will help eventually, but they’re moving slowly and won’t protect families who are drinking these chemicals right now.

    Your best protection: Test your water to know what you’re dealing with, and seriously consider filtration systems that can remove forever chemicals before they get into your family’s bodies.

    This isn’t about fear – it’s about facts. Nearly half of American tap water contains chemicals that never break down and are linked to serious health problems. Knowing this helps you make informed decisions about protecting your family’s health.

    Take Action Today

    • Check the USGS interactive map – See if your area was tested and what they found
    • Contact your water utility – Ask for specific PFAS test results
    • Consider independent testing – Especially important for private well owners
    • Research filtration options – Find systems that specifically remove PFAS

    Sources: U.S. Geological Survey national tap water study, published July 2023 | Last Updated: June 24, 2025

    Check our Water reports HERE to find out your water quality

    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • 3M’s $12.5B PFAS Settlement Approved – Largest Water Contamination Payout in History

    3M’s $12.5B PFAS Settlement Approved – Largest Water Contamination Payout in History

    The biggest water contamination settlement in American history just got approved. 3M will pay up to $12.5 billion to help clean up “forever chemicals” in drinking water across the country – and your water company might be getting some of that money.

    Here’s what this massive payout means for your drinking water and your family’s health.

    What This Huge Settlement Actually Means

    3M, the company that made Post-it Notes and Scotch tape, also spent decades making toxic forever chemicals that ended up in drinking water nationwide. Now they’re paying the price – literally.

    The deal: 3M will pay between $10.5 billion and $12.5 billion over 13 years to help nearly 12,000 public water systems across America test for and remove PFAS chemicals. The exact amount depends on how many water systems actually find contamination.

    Who gets the money: Any public water company that has found forever chemicals in their water – or might find them in the future. This only covers public water systems, not private well owners.

    Timeline: 3M’s payments started in late 2024 and will continue through 2036. But that’s just when 3M finishes paying – actual cleanup of all contaminated water systems will likely take much longer.

    How Much Money Are We Talking About?

    This isn’t just big – it’s historic. Here’s how massive this settlement really is:

    $12.5 billion is more than:

    • The entire annual budget of many states
    • What most major cities spend in several years combined
    • Any previous environmental cleanup settlement in U.S. history

    Where the money goes:

    • Installing expensive water treatment systems to remove forever chemicals
    • Testing water systems that haven’t been checked yet
    • Ongoing monitoring and maintenance costs
    • Helping smaller communities that can’t afford cleanup on their own

    The reality check: Even $12.5 billion might not be enough. Some experts estimate the true cost of cleaning up PFAS nationwide could be $100 billion or more. This settlement is a major step, but likely won’t cover complete remediation everywhere.

    Why 3M Had to Pay This Much

    3M didn’t just accidentally create this problem. They knew their chemicals were dangerous and kept making them anyway.

    What 3M did wrong:

    • Made forever chemicals for over 60 years, knowing they were toxic
    • Used them in firefighting foam that contaminated water supplies near airports and military bases
    • Put PFAS in everyday products like non-stick pans, waterproof clothes, and food packaging
    • Kept quiet about health risks while the chemicals spread everywhere

    The smoking gun: Internal company documents showed 3M knew as early as the 1970s that these chemicals could harm people and the environment, but they kept making them for decades.

    The tipping point: When communities started suing, 3M faced the possibility of even bigger payouts if they lost in court. The settlement was actually the cheaper option.

    Does Your Community Get Money?

    Probably yes, if you get your water from a public water system. Here’s how to find out:

    Your water company likely qualifies if:

    • They’ve found any level of PFAS in your water
    • They’re required to test for PFAS under EPA rules
    • They serve the public (not private wells)

    Who’s excluded:

    • Private well owners (you get absolutely nothing from this settlement)
    • Some federal and state government water systems
    • Very small systems that haven’t detected PFAS and aren’t required to test

    Important: If you have a private well, this $12.5 billion doesn’t help you at all. You’re responsible for your own testing and cleanup.

    How much your community gets depends on:

    • How many people they serve
    • How contaminated the water is
    • What cleanup costs they’re facing
    • Whether they detected PFAS before or after June 2023

    What This Means for Your Drinking Water

    The good news: Your water company now has money to clean up forever chemicals. The not-so-good news: It’s going to take years, and the cleanup might not be perfect.

    What should happen:

    • Water companies can now afford expensive treatment systems
    • More communities will test their water for the first time
    • Contaminated systems can start removing PFAS instead of just monitoring it

    What might not happen:

    • Instant cleanup (treatment systems take years to install)
    • Perfect removal (some PFAS might still get through)
    • Protection for private well users (they’re not covered)

    The timeline reality: Even with this money, most water systems won’t finish installing treatment equipment until the late 2020s or 2030s. And 3M’s payments end in 2036, whether cleanup is finished or not.

    What You Should Do Right Now

    Don’t wait for your water company to spend this settlement money. Protect your family today:

    Find out if your area is affected:

    • Check if your water company is part of the settlement
    • Ask for recent PFAS test results
    • Look up your community’s water quality reports online

    Consider your own protection:

    • Good water filters can remove most forever chemicals today
    • Reverse osmosis systems are most effective
    • Even basic carbon filters help reduce some PFAS

    If you have a private well:

    • You get zero dollars from this settlement – it only covers public water systems
    • Test your water independently (3M won’t pay for this)
    • Install filtration if PFAS are found (you pay for this yourself)
    • Consider annual testing, especially near airports or industrial areas

    The Bigger Picture

    This settlement is huge, but it’s not the end of the PFAS story.

    More money is coming: Other chemical companies like DuPont have already agreed to their own billion-dollar settlements for water system cleanup. Expect more companies to follow.

    3M isn’t done paying: This settlement only covers public water system cleanup. 3M still faces thousands of personal injury lawsuits from people who got sick from PFAS exposure, plus separate state lawsuits. For example, they just agreed to pay New Jersey $450 million for broader PFAS contamination claims. These could cost billions more.

    Different types of lawsuits: This $12.5 billion is just for cleaning up public water systems. It doesn’t compensate individuals who got cancer or other health problems from drinking PFAS-contaminated water.

    The chemicals are still everywhere: This settlement only covers drinking water cleanup. PFAS are still in food packaging, clothing, cosmetics, and countless other products.

    Prevention matters: 3M has pledged to stop making all PFAS by the end of 2025, but these chemicals will stay in the environment forever.

    What Environmental Groups Are Saying

    The good: “This settlement will help millions of Americans get cleaner drinking water and holds a major polluter accountable for decades of contamination.”

    The concerning: “While $12.5 billion sounds like a lot, it’s probably not enough to fully clean up the mess 3M created. And it does nothing for people who are already sick from drinking contaminated water.”

    The reality: Most communities took the settlement because going to court would take years with no guarantee of getting anything. This way, they have money in hand to start cleanup now.

    Bottom Line: Historic Payout, But Your Water Might Still Need Filtering

    3M’s $12.5 billion settlement is the largest environmental payout in U.S. history, and it will help thousands of communities start cleaning up their drinking water. But don’t expect overnight results.

    The truth: Even with this massive settlement, it could take a decade or more for all affected water systems to install treatment equipment. And if you have a private well, you’re not covered at all.

    Your best bet: Find out if your water is contaminated and consider installing your own filtration system. The settlement money will help your community eventually, but protecting your family today is up to you.

    This payout proves that forever chemicals are a serious, expensive problem. It also shows that companies can be held accountable for poisoning our water supply. But the most important thing is making sure your family isn’t drinking these dangerous chemicals while we wait for the cleanup to happen.

    Take Action Today

    • Check if your water company is getting settlement money – Search the settlement website
    • Test your water – Especially important for private well owners
    • Research filtration options – Don’t wait for community-wide cleanup
    • Stay informed – More settlements and regulations are coming
    • Check our Water reports HERE to find out your water quality

    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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  • EPA Delays PFAS Cleanup to 2031, Cancels Rules for 4 Forever Chemicals – What This Means for Your Drinking Water

    EPA Delays PFAS Cleanup to 2031, Cancels Rules for 4 Forever Chemicals – What This Means for Your Drinking Water

    If you get your water from the tap and worry about what’s in it, you need to hear this. The EPA just made a big decision about “forever chemicals” in drinking water that affects millions of American families. They’re giving water companies more time to clean up two of these toxic chemicals, and they’re backing off completely on four others.

    Here’s what happened and what it means for you and your family.

    What This Actually Means for Your Water

    Your local water company now has until 2031 to remove two dangerous forever chemicals (PFOA and PFOS) from your drinking water. That’s two extra years beyond what was originally planned.

    But here’s the bigger deal: The EPA is also canceling the rules they made last year for four other forever chemicals. These chemicals were supposed to be cleaned up too, but now there’s no requirement to remove them at all.

    What this means in plain English:

    • Your water might keep having these toxic chemicals in it for years longer
    • Some forever chemicals that were going to be removed now won’t be
    • Water companies get more time and have to do less cleanup

    Who this affects: If you drink tap water anywhere in America, this could affect you. Scientists estimate this impacts up to 105 million people who have these chemicals in their water above safe levels.

    The Basics: What Are Forever Chemicals?

    Forever chemicals (called PFAS) are exactly what they sound like – they never go away. Once they get in your body or the environment, they stay there forever.

    Why you should care:

    • They’re linked to cancer, liver problems, and heart issues
    • They hurt children’s development and immune systems
    • They’re in the water supply of nearly half of American homes
    • No amount is considered truly safe

    How they got there: Companies used these chemicals for decades in things like non-stick pans, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foam. They leaked into groundwater and rivers that feed our drinking water systems.

    What the EPA Actually Did

    Last year, the EPA said water companies had to clean up six different forever chemicals by 2029. Now they’re changing course:

    What’s staying: Water companies still have to remove PFOA and PFOS (the two most studied forever chemicals), but they get until 2031 instead of 2029.

    What’s gone: Rules for four other forever chemicals are being thrown out completely. These include chemicals with names like GenX that companies started using when the first two got banned.

    Why the change: Water companies and industry groups complained the cleanup was too expensive and too fast. They sued the EPA saying the rules were unfair.

    What You Can Do Right Now

    Don’t wait for the government or your water company to protect your family. Here’s what you can do today:

    Find out what’s in your water:

    • Call your water company and ask for their latest test results
    • Look up your area’s water quality report online
    • If you have well water, get it tested yourself

    Consider getting a water filter:

    • Reverse osmosis systems remove most forever chemicals
    • High-quality carbon filters also work well
    • Even basic pitcher filters can help reduce some chemicals

    Pay special attention if you:

    • Are pregnant or have young kids (forever chemicals are worst for developing children)
    • Live near military bases, airports, or industrial areas
    • Have well water (no one is monitoring it but you)

    What Happens Next

    The EPA says they’ll finalize these changes by spring 2026, but that might not happen. Environmental groups are already threatening to sue, saying the EPA can’t just cancel safety rules without good reason.

    Here’s what to watch for:

    • Court battles that could force the EPA to keep the stricter rules
    • Your state might make its own rules that are tougher than federal ones
    • Water companies might clean up the chemicals anyway to avoid bad publicity

    The bottom line: Don’t count on the government to protect your family’s drinking water anytime soon. The back-and-forth could go on for years.

    The Real Talk

    Water industry groups are celebrating, saying this gives small towns more time to figure out expensive cleanup. Environmental groups are furious, calling it a betrayal that puts profits over people’s health.

    Here’s what we know for sure:

    • Forever chemicals are dangerous, especially for kids
    • They’re in millions of Americans’ drinking water right now
    • The cleanup just got delayed and scaled back
    • Your best protection is filtering your own water

    For families: If you’re worried about your kids drinking these chemicals every day, you don’t have to wait for Washington to figure this out. Good water filters can remove most forever chemicals today, and they’re getting more affordable all the time.

    For homeowners: Your property value could be affected if your area has high levels of forever chemicals. Getting your water tested and having a good filtration system could be a smart investment.

    Bottom Line: Protect Your Family Now

    The EPA just gave water companies more time and fewer requirements to clean up forever chemicals. That means these dangerous substances will stay in millions of Americans’ drinking water longer than planned.

    You can’t control what Washington does, but you can control what your family drinks. The good news? Today’s water filters can remove most forever chemicals, and you don’t need government permission to install one.

    Don’t wait for politicians and water companies to sort this out. Protect your family’s health today.

    Take Action

    • Test your water – Know what’s actually in it
    • Research filters – Find the right system for your home and budget
    • Stay informed – Follow your local water quality reports
    • Share this – Help your neighbors understand what’s happening

    Sources: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announcements, May 2025 | Last Updated: June 24, 2025

    Check our Water reports HERE to find out your water quality

    Please read – our information

    The information presented on cleanairandwater.net is compiled from official water quality reports, trusted news sources, government websites, and public health resources. While we strive for accuracy and thoroughness in our presentations, we are not scientists, engineers, or qualified water quality professionals.


    Our mission is to present water quality information in an accessible, real-world format that helps people understand what’s in their water and make informed decisions about their health and safety. We believe that complex environmental information should be available to everyone in a format that’s easy to understand.


    We make every effort to ensure our content is current and accurate, but we cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. This website should not replace official communications from your local water utility or health department. We always recommend consulting official sources for the most up-to-date information regarding your specific water system.


    Clean Air and Water is not liable for any unintentional errors, omissions, or outdated information. The content on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

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