EPA Designates Two Chemicals as Hazardous to Ensure Quicker Cleanup

The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday designated two forever chemicals, known as PFOA and PFOS, as hazardous substances, an action intended to ensure quicker cleanup of the toxic compounds and require industries and others responsible for contamination to pay for its removal. The compounds are part of a larger cluster of forever chemicals known as PFAS that have been used since the 1940s in industry and consumer products including nonstick frying pans, water-repellent sports gear, stain-resistant rugs, and cosmetics.