The high-profile AFFF lawsuit, Aqueous Film Forming Foam, or AFFF, has been scrutinized as it contains PFAS, a notorious carcinogen. PFAS can cause cancer and several other metabolic, immunological, and developmental disorders in people. This is possible through direct exposure as well as indirect contamination of water and soil. These revelations have led to a worldwide demand for an immediate cessation of the use of AFFF and PFAS-containing substances.
However, the use of AFFF is still persistent in the US. Albeit, this is with the issuance of periodic promises and policies to ban its use.
As per a recent Government Accountability Office report, the Pentagon will likely request an extension until 2026. This extension is for transitioning from conventional firefighting foam, which contains PFAS, to a safer, fluorine-free alternative.
The blog post seeks to elucidate the importance of this shift and the consequences for the environment and public health.
Why Must The Use of PFAS Be Banned At Once?
Since they do not decompose in the environment, the term “forever chemicals” is appropriate. It refers to a class of synthetic compounds known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Because these compounds are resistant to heat, water, and oil, they are frequently employed in various goods, including firefighting foams.
According to TorHoerman Law, research has connected exposure to PFAS to several health problems. Among them are:
- Cancer: Studies have indicated that military firefighters exposed to PFAS are susceptible to various forms of cancer.
- High levels of cholesterol: PFAS exposure may raise cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease.
- Reduced birth weights: Pregnant women who are exposed to PFAS may give birth to children who weigh less.
- Decreased immunological response: The body’s immunological response may be less effective due to PFAS.
The Legacy of the Military’s Use of PFAS-Containing Foam
The military has employed PFAS-containing AFFF in emergency situations and training drills for many years. As per government reports, the foam’s ability to quickly cover, and suppress fires by creating a film makes it effective. What the process does is stifle oxygen in flames. Because of its water content, temperatures are lowered below ignition points, cooling surfaces, and flames.
Based on these qualities, AFFF is a highly effective and dependable firefighting agent, which explains its widespread usage. This extensive usage results in substantial soil and groundwater pollution at military sites and nearby towns.
Congress mentioned in the National Defense Authorization Act that it would cease using AFFF for operations and training by October 1, 2024. The exception is for ocean-going vessels with a high risk of uncontrollably igniting fires.
What Are the Challenges in Transitioning to Fluorine-Free Foam?
The GAO report highlights several hurdles the DoD faces in making the switch. The GAO report explains that transitioning to fluorine-free foam costs $2.1 billion. The new foam is 21% more expensive than AFFF, notes recent news from the Colorado Newsline.
Many current firefighting systems are designed to use AFFF, which mixes with water before use. The new fluorine-free foam cannot be pre-mixed, necessitating extensive modifications or replacements of existing equipment. Moreover, there are issues with the thermostability of the alternate foam, as described in the report.
Military Personnel Exposed to AFFF Seeks Justice
The ongoing AFFF foam cancer lawsuit pressures the DoD to stop using AFFF immediately. The MDL claims that exposure to AFFF used by firefighters and military personnel has led to different forms of cancer. To flame the issue further, a study showed that firefighters are more susceptible to AFFF foam cancer than civilians. It’s due to their higher rates of exposure to the substances, reported KFF Health News.
The litigation seeks compensation for damages such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income. With increasing evidence linking AFFF to cancer, these lawsuits highlight the broader concerns over PFAS contamination. It also emphasizes the chemical’s impact on public health and safety.
What Are the Ongoing Contamination and Cleanup Efforts?
According to its own reports, the DoD has been actively testing and monitoring its facilities for PFAS contamination since 2016. It has assessed over 700 sites so far. As of last year, 574 of these sites required further cleanup efforts.
The EPA’s new PFAS standards have led the DoD to consider more site clean-ups. An additional 133 sites may see expanded remediation efforts.
However, environmental advocacy groups (the Environmental Working Group) argue that the DoD has had sufficient time and funding to transition. Hence, further delays are unacceptable. These groups emphasize that safe and effective PFAS-free firefighting foams are already available.
The delay in transitioning to fluorine-free firefighting foam underscores the complexities and challenges of addressing PFAS contamination. While the DoD has made progress, significant financial, technical, and training obstacles remain. The military works toward a safer and more sustainable solution. Yet, ongoing efforts to monitor and remediate PFAS contamination are crucial to protecting public health and the environment.
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