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The world is grappling with the most harrowing public health issue of our time – and you may not even know it.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – better known as “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to degradation – are increasingly detected in drinking water and wastewater systems across the country, and more than 172 million Americans are at risk.

With evolving federal and state regulations, municipal leaders are under growing pressure to address contamination while balancing operational constraints, capital costs and resilience. Compliance demands a proactive approach that integrates regulatory awareness, effective treatment and adaptable design strategies, all with the goal of safeguarding the environment and community trust.

Understanding PFAS Mandates

Regulatory oversight of PFAS has accelerated in recent years, with federal agencies establishing enforceable limits for certain PFAS compounds and many states adopting even more stringent standards. These often require municipalities to implement enhanced reporting and treatment protocols for drinking water and, in some cases, wastewater discharges. The variability across jurisdictions adds another layer of complexity, making early assessment and planning essential.

For municipal decision-makers, compliance should be viewed not as a static requirement but as a moving target. As research continues to uncover additional health risks associated with PFAS exposure, regulations are likely to expand to include more compounds and lower allowable thresholds. Proactive planning grounded in a clear understanding of current requirements and anticipated future changes can help avoid reactive investments and costly system retrofits.

Federal Standards

Typically:

  • Enforceable nationwide limits established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
  • Health-based thresholds measured in parts per trillion
  • A defined list of regulated PFAS compounds (such as PFOA and PFOS)
  • Intended to serve as a baseline for all communities
State Standards

Typically:

  • Vary by jurisdiction
  • Some states adopt more stringent limits, while others rely on action levels rather than enforceable rules
  • Regulatory approaches may focus on individual compounds, combined PFAS totals or evolving health advisories
  • Often updated more frequently as new research or local conditions emerge

Effective Mitigation Strategies for PFAS Contamination

Successful prevention begins with identifying potential sources of contamination and implementing consistent monitoring programs. Industrial discharges, firefighting foams and legacy land uses can all contribute to elevated PFAS levels within water systems. Once PFAS presence is confirmed, municipalities must evaluate treatment tactics that align with their specific water chemistry, capacity and regulatory obligations.

Equally important is considering operational impacts. Treatment solutions should be evaluated not only for their removal efficiency, but also for maintenance, waste handling, energy use and lifecycle costs. Integrating mitigation into broader capital planning can help municipalities maximize efficiency while decreasing disruption to existing operations.

1. Employ Emerging Treatment Technologies

A range of proven treatment technologies are available to address PFAS contamination, each offering distinct advantages depending on site conditions and compliance goals.

Granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration remains one of the most widely deployed solutions, valued for its effectiveness, operational familiarity and feasibility across a range of system sizes. Ion exchange systems offer higher selectivity for certain PFAS compounds and can provide a smaller physical footprint, making them attractive for space-constrained facilities. High-pressure membrane treatments, such as reverse osmosis, deliver high removal expediency but may require greater energy input and operations.

Selecting the right technology requires a careful balance between treatment performance, infrastructure and cost. In many cases, a phased or hybrid approach allows municipalities to meet current standards while maintaining flexibility for future regulatory changes.

2. Design Modular Facilities

Modular facility design has become a valuable way to manage uncertainty and cost-control. These systems empower municipalities to implement mitigation in phases, scaling capacity as regulations tighten or as community needs grow. This ultimately reduces upfront capital expenditures while providing a clear pathway for expansion.

Beyond cost efficiency, modularity supports operational wherewithal. Systems can be reconfigured with minimal disruption to existing treatment processes, helping facilities maintain continuity of service.

3. Embrace “Clean” Building Materials

PFAS challenges extend beyond water treatment systems and into the built environment. Certain coatings, sealants, insulation products and other construction materials may contain toxic compounds, contributing to environmental exposure during construction or renovation activities.

Identifying PFAS-containing materials and evaluating safer alternatives can combat lasting exposure risks while aligning with broader sustainability and public health goals. Thoughtful material choices reinforce a holistic approach to PFAS mitigation—one that addresses both treatment performance and environmental responsibility.

4. Consider Real-World Application & Costs

Across the country, municipalities are successfully addressing PFAS contamination through innovative combinations of treatment technology, modular design, and strategic planning. In many cases, early investment in scalable systems has allowed communities to achieve compliance while avoiding overdesign and unnecessary expense. These projects often leverage state and federal funding programs, grants, and low-interest financing to offset capital costs and support implementation.

Securing funding frequently depends on demonstrating readiness, clear project phasing, and viability. Municipalities that align PFAS mitigation efforts with broader infrastructure and resilience goals are often better positioned to access available financial resources.

Moving Forward with Confidence

PFAS compliance presents undeniable challenges, but it also offers an opportunity for municipalities to modernize infrastructure, strengthen public health protections, and build long-term resilience. By combining regulatory insight, effective treatment strategies, flexible facility design, and integrated partnerships, communities can move beyond reactive compliance toward purposeful, sustainable solutions. With the right planning and expertise, today’s PFAS challenges can become a catalyst for stronger, more livable communities tomorrow.

PREPARING FOR PFAS COMPLIANCE BEFORE DEADLINES HIT?

With federal and state standards tightening, communities that plan ahead are better positioned to secure funding and avoid costly retrofits. Our experts partner with public works leaders to deliver compliance-ready, adaptable infrastructure solutions.

About the Author: Eric Wies

With more than two decades of experience in civil and environmental engineering, Eric provides strategic direction for the planning, delivery and operation of water-related infrastructure for our clients. His expertise includes the assessment and design of various water and wastewater treatment facilities throughout Western New York and beyond. He understands how to deliver on the values and expectations of communities, and ultimately provide safe, cost-effective and lasting water solutions.