Summary
Research by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that California uses large amounts of pesticides containing harmful chemicals called PFAS. These chemicals can collect in the environment and in the human body, posing health risks. Fresno County used the most PFAS pesticides from 2018 to 2023, as shown in an EWG map.
Key Facts
- The EWG reported about 2.5 million pounds of PFAS pesticides are used annually in California.
- PFAS chemicals are considered human carcinogens, meaning they can cause cancer.
- The EPA has approved or proposed the approval of these pesticides.
- PFAS pesticides can contaminate water sources and harm human health.
- Fresno County used the most PFAS pesticides with 2.1 million pounds from 2018 to 2023.
- Other high-use counties include Kern, San Joaquin, and Imperial.
- California can restrict pesticide use even after national approval by the EPA.
- There are concerns due to insufficient testing of PFAS pesticides for health impacts.
