Addressing PFAS Contamination: Urgent Risks and Proven Solutions

APTIM supports government, industrial, and commercial clients in addressing complex regulatory requirements for emerging contaminants, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination, also known as forever chemicals pollution. The health and environmental risks associated with these substances require immediate action and trusted expertise.

PFAS are a class of synthetic chemicals characterized by one of the strongest bonds in nature: the carbon-fluorine bond. This chemical structure prevents PFAS from naturally degrading, resulting in widespread and persistent pollution. Scientists have identified PFAS in the bloodstreams of humans and marine mammals, contaminated drinking water sources, and even remote regions such as Antarctica and the Mariana Trench.

Research has linked PFAS exposure to a wide range of health problems, including:

These significant health concerns highlight why addressing PFAS effects on drinking water and other exposure pathways is critical.

PFAS in Drinking Water: A Growing Public Health Concern

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has estimated that more than 158 million US citizens are exposed to PFAS in contaminated drinking water. A recent study by Waterkeeper Alliance and the Hispanic Access Foundation, in collaboration with other local organizations, revealed that toxic PFAS chemicals were present in 98% of tested waterways across 19 states. This marked increase from 83% just three years earlier illustrates the urgency of the problem.

PFAS have even been detected in consumer products and food supplies, from nonstick cookware to beer. As the understanding of forever chemicals pollution grows, so does the need for comprehensive remediation solutions.

PFAS Regulation and Compliance Challenges

In 2024, the Biden administration set low limits for six common PFAS contaminants in drinking water. However, the EPA has since announced its decision to reconsider those standards, creating regulatory uncertainty. Despite this, states remain responsible for implementing limits, and many are advancing independently. In 2025, at least 250 bills addressing PFAS regulation, also referred to as PFAS legislation, were introduced across 36 states. These bills cover a range of measures, from banning PFAS in consumer products to allocating funding for cleanup.

As regulations evolve, companies and municipalities face the pressing question: How to comply with PFAS regulations? Compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a reputational and community trust issue. Proactive strategies help organizations avoid penalties, safeguard public health, and demonstrate environmental stewardship.

PFAS Lawsuits and Legal Risks

Beyond regulation, legal challenges are escalating. Nearly 10,000 PFAS-related lawsuits have been filed in the US in past 25 years. Settlements already total more than $16.7 billion. In 2025, PFAS manufacturer 3M reached a settlement of $285 million, with potential payments totaling $450 million over 25 years. This represents the largest single clean-water settlement in New Jersey’s history.

These cases illustrate the substantial financial and reputational risk for organizations that fail to address contamination. Companies that manage PFAS exposure proactively are better positioned to avoid costly litigation and strengthen community relationships.

Solutions Through PFAS Remediation

To protect communities and comply with regulatory demands, organizations must invest in effective PFAS remediation. APTIM delivers innovative, science-driven solutions designed to meet the challenges of PFAS contamination. Our team of chemists, engineers, and program managers develop and implement customized strategies for detection, treatment, and long-term monitoring.

APTIM’s portfolio includes advanced treatment systems for drinking water, eco-friendly landfill leachate management, and large-scale PFAS remediation services for government, industrial, and commercial markets. By integrating data quality, rapid response, and proven project management, we help clients not only meet but exceed compliance requirements. We are a trusted advisor for remediation projects in government, industrial, and commercial markets.

Why Partner With APTIM?

The question many organizations face is: Should we hire a PFAS consultant?  With regulatory standards tightening and legal risks expanding, the answer is increasingly yes. APTIM’s expertise ensures that clients stay ahead of regulations, minimize liability, and protect community health.

Whether the priority is ensuring compliance with EPA PFAS limits, mitigating legal exposure, or implementing sustainable treatment technologies, APTIM is equipped to provide tailored solutions. Our track record in PFAS management positions us as a trusted partner.

Take Action Today

PFAS contamination is not a problem that will resolve itself. From PFAS effects on drinking water to increasing PFAS lawsuits, the risks are urgent and widespread. APTIM transforms overwhelming challenges into actionable, compliant solutions.

If your organization is asking how to address contamination, where to begin with regulation, or how to avoid future liability, the time to act is now. Learn more about our PFAS solutions and explore our full range of PFAS remediation services.

Published September 2025