In November, the Environmental Protection Agency approved the use of two pesticides that contain PFAS, or so-called “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to health risks such as infertility, developmental delays, hormone and immune abnormalities, and certain cancers. The agency previously rolled back limitations on PFAS in drinking water, signalling broader acceptance of the chemicals and raising concern among environmental and public health experts. Many expressed worries about food and water safety and criticized the EPA for approving pesticides they view as harmful. On November 24, the agency also rolled back regulations on fine particulate pollution, or soot. Fine particle pollution from vehicle and industrial sources is considered the deadliest type of air pollution and has been linked to millions of deaths each year. Critics described the decision as an “attack” on Americans’ health to appease business interests.
Recommendation
Conversations about policies that impact environmental health provide an opportunity for health communicators to share information about pollutants and other substances that may pose health risks. Messaging may explain that while the EPA states that approved PFAS-containing pesticides are safe, advocacy groups have called for additional research into how these chemicals affect the environment and the human body. Messaging may also clarify what particle pollution is and who is most at risk.
Fact-checking sources: TIME, Eos
Communication resources: Find more talking points about environmental health
