Date/Time: Thursday, February 18, 2021, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of more than 9000 man-made chemicals common in firefighting and non-stick coatings that persist in the environment and in the human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” They are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, immune suppression, and reproductive problems. A CDC survey found PFAS in the blood of 97% of the participants. Our panel of experts will discuss the status of local scientific research to understand the extent of PFAS in our local waters and fish, and policy efforts to stop the use of PFAS.
Panelists:
- Vicki Blazer, USGS Research Fisheries Biologist — PFAS research in local fisheries
- Upper Potomac Riverkeeper Brent Walls – PFAS testing in Upper Potomac & MDE’s interagency work group
- Maryland Del. Sara Love & Sen. Sarah Elfreth – MD HB22/SB195: PFAS Protection Act
- Anna Killius, Policy Analyst at James River Association – Virginia’s PFAS Drinking Water Study
Moderator: South, West, Rhode Riverkeeper Jesse Iliff
Resources:
- James River Association’s action alert for funding for PFAS Drinking Water Study
- PFAS in Virginia Public Health Factsheet
- Factsheet of Maryland’s PFAS Protection Act bill
- Maryland PIRG’s action alert on PFAS Protection Act
- Upper Potomac Riverkeeper’s PFAS in Antietam Creek study
- Bay Journal articles on PFAS research in local rivers & streams, drinking water, fish and oysters
We thank MOMs Organic Market for sponsoring the event.
Naked Lunch cafe packaging and to-go containers are certified PFAS free!