Bending the Arc references a quote by Rev. Dr. King who said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This digital newsletter from the CSA Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation office showcases the work of changemakers, opportunities to learn, and opportunities for you to help “bend the arc” toward justice. Full contents of the newsletter are published on this page.
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Weakened Standards for Forever Chemicals
May 16, 2025
In 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that companies were voluntarily phasing out the use of “forever chemicals” or PFAS, in food packaging, including fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and takeout containers. In a February 28, 2024, Washington Post article, Jim Jones, deputy commissioner for human foods at the time, said “the major source of dietary exposure to PFAS is from food packaging.”
The article also suggests these ways you can minimize your exposure to PFAS from the foods you eat:
- Cut back on fast food (and greasy wrappers)
- Skip microwave popcorn
- Avoid nonstick cookware
- Store leftovers in glass containers
- Drink filtered water
- Check the source of the fish you eat
One of the biggest concerns is when harmful food packaging ends up in a landfill. PFAS are called forever chemicals because of their ability to persist in the environment for hundreds, even thousands of years. As the paper disintegrates over time, the PFAS collects in the landfill leachate, which can end up in water supplies and irrigation water, and thus our drinking water and into our environment. Read more here.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that more than 158 million Americans are exposed to PFAS through their drinking water. A landmark water standard was implemented last year, limiting public exposure to six common PFAS contaminants. The regulations gave the 66,000 public water systems in the U.S, until 2029 to comply with the new standards.
Last June, trade associations representing water utilities filed suit against the EPA, challenging the science and data underlying the drinking water standard and its timetable for meeting it. According to the agency’s estimates, the standard would cost utilities about $1.5 billion a year.
Unfortunately, just this week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced their plans to rescind and reconsider drinking water standards for four forever chemicals that have been linked to a range of illnesses. The EPA said these changes will “protect Americans from PFOS in their drinking water while providing common sense flexibility in the form of additional time for compliance.” The deadline for compliance extended from 2029 to 2031. Read more here.
Some argue that while this is a win for chemical companies, it isn’t a win for American public health.
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