‘Forever chemicals’ reach tap water via treated sewage, study finds

In a new study examining nationwide wastewater samples, a research team led by incoming assistant professor Bridger Ruyle found high levels of PFAS and other "forever chemicals" that persist even after treatment. The research raises questions about water reuse as communities face increasing water scarcity. "What are all of these other compounds? Are they other PFAS that we're not measuring, that the industry has shifted toward?" said Ruyle, highlighting concerns about unidentified chemicals and their potential health impacts. The study found wastewater treatment can actually concentrate these contaminants, potentially affecting millions of Americans' drinking water.