The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has quietly approved the use of three new PFAS pesticides, bringing the total to five since the second Trump administration. PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment.
Concerns Over Toxicity
The EPA itself has linked PFAS to a higher risk of cancer, obesity, thyroid disease, and other health problems. Despite these concerns, the agency has approved the new pesticides, which will be used to kill insects on crops.
Environmental groups have criticized the decision, citing the potential risks to human health and the environment. “We’re seeing the Trump administration do everything they can to continue our exposure to PFAS,” said Jared Hayes, a senior policy analyst at the Environmental Working Group.
Industry Ties
Critics have also raised concerns about the EPA’s ties to the chemical industry. The agency’s deputy assistant administrator, Kyle Kunkler, is a former senior director of government affairs for the American Soybean Association. Other officials have similar industry connections.
The EPA has defended its decision, saying that the new pesticides are safe and will not pose a risk to human health or the environment. However, experts disagree, citing the persistence of PFAS in the environment and their potential to cause harm.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
