Read the full article by Lauren Hines-Acosta (Bay Journal)
“Concerns around the nearly indestructible family of pollutants known as PFAS have been growing as environmental groups have pushed Virginia to add limits in permits across the state. But the Richmond International Airport may be one of the first required to reduce PFAS, or ‘forever chemicals,’ in its discharge.
The Richmond airport is renewing its stormwater discharge permit, and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) added general requirements for the airport to monitor and lower its discharge of PFAS. Some stakeholders say that’s not enough and are asking for specific reduction targets.
DEQ is still reviewing public comments and plans to host a public hearing on the permit. The agency has not yet set a date.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are used in a wide range of products for their stain-resistant and heat-resistant properties. Toxicity varies between compounds, but many have been linked to health issues such as cancer, developmental effects and cardiovascular problems.”…