Sewage sludge contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a class of chemicals that are toxic and persistent in the environment. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals”. 

David Sligh, Conservation Director and water issue expert joins the podcast to discuss this issue and its implications.

How PFAS get into sewage sludge

• Wastewater from households and businesses: PFAS from consumer products like cookware, clothing, and cosmetics can be washed down drains and end up in wastewater treatment plants 
• Industrial discharges: PFAS from industrial discharges flow into wastewater treatment plants 

How PFAS in sewage sludge can be harmful 

• PFAS can leach into soil, plants, water, and food
• PFAS can contaminate drinking water supplies
• PFAS can threaten the food supply

What happens to PFAS in sewage sludge 

• The sewage treatment process separates liquids and solids, but it doesn’t remove PFAS
• The sludge can be put in a landfill, incinerated, or sold to farmers as fertilizer

What can be done to reduce PFAS in sewage sludge 

• Limit the amount of PFAS that ends up in wastewater
• Phase out the use of PFAS in everyday products
• Require manufacturers to treat polluted wastewater
• Test biosolids for PFAS
• Warn farmers if they are using contaminated sludge

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