Summary
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering approving a new pesticide called epyrifenacil, which contains chemicals known as PFAS, sometimes referred to as "forever chemicals." This decision has caused concern among environmental experts due to potential health and environmental risks. The EPA states they have taken steps to ensure the pesticide does not pose significant risks to humans or the environment.
Key Facts
- The EPA proposed approving the pesticide epyrifenacil for use on crops like canola, corn, soybeans, and wheat.
- Epyrifenacil breaks down into trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), which is often found in drinking water.
- PFAS chemicals, to which epyrifenacil belongs, are known to pose health risks even at low concentrations.
- This is the fifth pesticide containing PFAS chemicals the EPA has sought to approve since President Trump began his second term.
- The EPA claims epyrifenacil has a "moderate acute toxicity profile" and is not likely carcinogenic at certain levels.
- The agency plans to implement measures like spray drift buffers to reduce potential side effects.
- Critics argue these measures might not be enough to prevent contamination and adverse impacts on health and ecosystems.
- PFAS chemicals are classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen, meaning there is enough evidence they can cause cancer in humans.
