About half of California waterways contaminated with Pfas, pesticide analysis finds
Summary
Almost half of the waterways tested in California contain pesticides that include PFAS, a group of chemicals linked to health problems like cancer. These "forever chemicals" are widely used in farming and have been found in streams, sediment, and many fruits and vegetables. State regulators recently reviewed data showing the spread of PFAS pollution, but a full ban on these pesticides did not pass in California's state assembly.Key Facts
- About 50% of California waterways tested have contamination from PFAS pesticides.
- PFAS are chemicals that resist breaking down and can cause serious health issues.
- These pesticides are used on food crops to kill weeds and insects.
- Over half of sediment samples in waterways also contained PFAS pesticides.
- From 2018 to 2023, California farms applied an average of 2.5 million pounds of PFAS pesticides annually.
- PFAS residues were found in 37% of all tested produce; 90% of peaches, plums, and nectarines had them.
- Highest contamination was found near farming areas like Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties.
- A proposed law to ban PFAS pesticides by 2035 failed, but a pause on approving new PFAS pesticides was approved.
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