Playing Catch with Forever Chemicals:

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is giving the green light to PFAS "forever chemicals" to aid the fast-growing semiconductor industry. Unfortunately, this hasty approval could significantly raise pollution levels with these potentially toxic PFAS. They are so termed as "forever chemicals" due to their non-degradable nature and links to severe health issues like cancer, liver dysfunctions and kidney disease.

Green Lights and Red Flags:

Semiconductors are crucial cogs in many industries from defense to smart electronics, and hence their production is experiencing massive growth, fuelled by the Biden administration's incentives. However, this industry is also a major pollutant source, particularly of the unmonitored PFAS, leading to a clash with the efforts to control PFAS pollution.

Fast Tracks and Bumpy Roads:

While the EPA announced a strengthened review process in December 2024 for new chemicals, there were two paragraphs buried in the new rules that seemed to contradict their intent. The agency mentioned the "critical role" of PFAS in semiconductor production and stated that reviews for these chemicals would be quickened by one-third compared to other sectors. These reasons were backed by the claim that the PFAS used in semiconductor industry are in a "closed loop" and are not a risk to workers. However, that claim has raised eyebrows among environmental activists who argue that these facilities discharge vast quantities of PFAS waste into the air and water.

Finding a Balance:

It's a bit of a Goldilocks situation. On the one hand, semiconductors are essential for numerous industries and on the other hand, their production involves environmentally hazardous materials. The solution will be finding a middle ground that encourages innovation while also protecting public health and the environment. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear, creating a sustainable and healthy environment requires transparency, accountability, and innovative thinking.

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