DEQ releases data from preliminary study of PFAS in biosolids, wastewater

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources has released data from a preliminary study that found PFAS present in soil, wastewater, and bio-solids. 

The study is the agency’s first investigation assessing PFAS concentrations in bio-solids across the state. 

Estimates found the majority of PFAS entering wastewater facilities on an annual basis is discharged into waterways, as compared with the amount entering the environment through land application of biosolids.

“The study represents a first step for DEQ to begin to understand PFAS concentrations in wastewater and biosolids in our state,” said Julie Grzyb, deputy director of the DEQ Division of Water Resources. “The study was based on a small sample size and was limited in scope, but it underscores the importance of characterizing and controlling PFAS contamination at the source.”

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals widely found in commercial industrial and consumer products.  

PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment and can build up in humans and animals.  

An estimated 3.5 million North Carolinians drink tap water that has PFAS levels above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency health-based standard scheduled to go into effect in 2029. 

There are currently no federal or North Carolina state regulatory requirements for PFAS in biosolids.