PFAS Risk Communications | AAAS EPI Center
Issue: A local university conducted and published a research study to quantify PFAS in drinking water treatment plant source waters (rivers and reservoirs) in the region and detected low levels of PFAS associated with aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used in firefighting. Further investigation determined that airport firefighting efforts to train staff were the source of the PFAS. The downstream drinking water treatment plants have not detected PFAS in their source or finished waters. Community Reaction: The published study sparked a news story that received several concerned citizen comments on social media. As a result, regional leaders have received emails asking for more information and associated risk level. Potential Response: Leadership Efforts: • Work with the state’s environmental department to assess the need to conduct regular sampling at the drinking water treatment plant for an extended duration. • Coordinate with airport officials to establish plans for phasing out PFAS onsite. Request alternative training methods or reduced training efforts to minimize PFAS discharges. This effort will likely need to be in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense. • Work with legislators and other government officials to determine if state funding is required to support the efforts for sampling and analysis. Community Outreach: • Communicate the plan for reducing or eliminating PFAS discharge from the airport source to the public and then the press. Utilize credible sources of information. • Identify the key concerns of residents, then develop fact sheets or informational releases to discuss risks and reduce concerns related to drinking water. Identify concerns by talking with residents, reviewing social media, and soliciting questions from the public. • Develop a webpage that includes educational materials and ongoing updates about progress towards mitigation.
Engaging the Community An immediate goal of public communications should be to establish trust and prepare the community to participate in solutions. The purpose of communications should be to position a community to act and react effectively in difficult situations, more quickly accept new information, and adapt as necessary.
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