'Forever chemicals' found in Indiana water, EPA data shows. Two Indiana cities over the EPA limit.
USA TODAY published a map of public drinking water systems that recently submitted test results for "forever chemicals" to the Environmental Protection Agency. South Bend was one of two Indiana towns found to have chemicals over the federally dictated levels.
Here's what we know.
What are 'forever chemicals'?
PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are defined by the EPA as long-lasting chemicals with components that break down very slowly over time.
Because of the widespread use of these chemicals, they are found in water, air, soil, fish and even human blood in varying levels. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some of these chemicals may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals.
As a result, the EPA established legally enforceable levels in 2024 for six PFAS in public drinking water. Public water systems must monitor for these chemicals and take action to reduce the levels of these chemicals if they violate the EPA's standards. They must also provide notification to the public of the violation.
Can PFAS be filtered out of water?
Not all filters reduce PFAS in water, so you should look for a filter that is specifically certified to do so, according to the EPA.
The agency recommends using the following types of water filters:
Charcoal (Granular Activated Carbon or GAC): These filters use carbon to trap chemicals as water passes through them.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: Reverse osmosis is a process that forces water through an extremely thin barrier that separates chemicals from the water.
Ion Exchange Resins: Resins are tiny beads that act like powerful magnets that attract and hold the contaminated materials from passing through the water system.
PFAS detected in Indiana
While PFAS have been detected in Indiana, they have mostly been detected at lower levels. The following two public water systems in were found to have "forever chemical" levels over the EPA limit:
South Bend: 1.3x the limit
Morgantown: 1.6x the limit
Are 'forever chemicals' in your water? Check map
CONTRIBUTING: USA TODAY staff.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Are there 'forever chemicals' in South Bend water? See map of EPA data
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