Welcome to this week's environmental update. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been making significant strides in protecting public health and the environment. Let's dive into the latest developments.
Starting with a major headline, the EPA has added nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) for reporting year 2025. This move, announced on January 6, 2025, updates the list of chemicals subject to toxic chemical release reporting under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) and the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA). Facilities must now track and report their activities involving these PFAS, enhancing transparency and accountability[3].
In another critical development, the EPA released the final risk evaluation for diisononyl phthalate (DINP), finding an unreasonable risk of injury to human health when workers are exposed under certain conditions of use. This evaluation, conducted under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), highlights the potential for developmental toxicity, liver harm, and cancer at higher exposure rates[1].
The EPA also issued final significant new use rules (SNUR) for certain chemical substances, requiring manufacturers to notify the EPA at least 90 days before commencing the manufacture or processing of these substances for designated significant new uses. This ensures that the EPA can evaluate and address potential risks before these activities begin[1].
Looking at broader policy initiatives, the EPA is driving reductions in greenhouse gas emissions through regulations and climate partnership programs. The agency plans to implement new source performance standards and emission guidelines for power plants and the oil and gas sector, and will support states in developing plans to meet these requirements. Additionally, the EPA will begin implementing multi-pollutant emissions standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles starting with model year 2027[2].
These developments have significant impacts on American citizens, businesses, and state and local governments. For instance, the addition of PFAS to the TRI enhances public transparency and accountability, while the final risk evaluation for DINP underscores the need for safer working conditions. The EPA's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions contribute to a healthier environment and align with international climate goals.
Citizens can engage with these developments by staying informed through the EPA's newsroom and by participating in public comment periods for proposed regulations. For example, the EPA recently announced a 60-day public comment period for draft national recommended ambient water quality criteria for certain PFAS[1].
In conclusion, the EPA's latest news and developments reflect a commitment to protecting public health and the environment. Key next steps include the implementation of new regulations and the continuation of public engagement. For more information, visit the EPA's website and stay tuned for future updates. Thank you for listening.