PFAS Risk Communications | AAAS EPI Center
What are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)? A class of thousands of synthetic organic chemicals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used since the 1940s in a variety of industrial and consumer applications from clothing and food wrappers to firefighting foam. Designed for long-term stability, temperature resistance, friction reduction, and oil and water repellency, PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” do not easily break down in the environment. Nearly everyone has been exposed to these toxic substances 1 . Not enough is known about the health impacts of most PFAS, but a number of the most-researched compounds have been linked to human health issues at small doses. Detected in drinking water and drinking water sources throughout the United States, the chemical properties of PFAS, such as the strength of the carbon-fluorine bonds, make them difficult to treat and remove using conventional water treatment processes. In the absence of enforceable federal regulations, several U.S. states adopted or proposed drinking water standards for specific PFAS. Uncertainties about the risk of PFAS, the evolving science, and the variability among policies and standards pose a particular challenge when communicating with the public about PFAS. The purpose of this guide is to provide guidance for risk communication and public outreach strategies for PFAS based on the best available evidence and provide decisionmakers with additional resources. Risk Communication for PFAS Public communication about PFAS contamination is particularly challenging because much remains unknown about the thousands of PFAS, our toxicological understanding is rapidly changing, new PFAS continue to be identified, and state and federal guidance vary significantly. The multiplicity of sources and exposure pathways can create a sense that everything is equally contaminated and dangerous. Communicators need to help people understand the variability in the degree of contamination and relative risk. Conveying uncertainties early on and maintaining transparency as evidence emerges is critical to building and maintaining trust and successfully engaging the public in the decision-making process. A science-based approach for communicating effectively in situations of high stress, concern, or controversy, risk communication can help address fears of the unknown and potential risks 2 . Risk communication can help affected communities understand the processes of risk assessment and management, form perceptions of potential hazards, and participate in making decisions about how risks should be managed 2 . Successful risk communication conveys information about risks in a relatable way to increase understanding and facilitate community participation in decision-making. For public officials, water utilities, and other public entities, risk communication on PFAS may focus on how to address PFAS issues in interactions with stakeholders, water users, and community members. Each situation must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
31
Made with FlippingBook Online document