Emerging Contaminants and PFAS

3

Emerging Contaminants and PFAS

Developing strategies and evaluating options in this time of rapidly evolving regulations

As a firm focused on water, BC has a unique perspective on the intersection of emerging contaminants in the water cycle. We’re focused on delivering sophisticated, yet practical solutions from source identification and sampling of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to developing and delivering remediation strategies for microplastics, and potential endocrine disruptive chemicals from pharmaceutical and personal care products.

We focus on long-term reliability, protection of public health and the environment, risk management, and innovative technology when needed. We’re working with coalitions, leading industry organizations, academia, and other partners to apply scientific principles and peer-reviewed research to influence and shape emerging contaminant regulations.

What are emerging contaminants?

Chemicals and compounds from pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and personal care products that are detected at low levels in the water cycle and may impact our environment, aquatic organisms, or human health. Emerging contaminants frequently include, but are not limited to, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), GenX chemicals, 1,2,3-trichloropropane (1,2,3-TCP), 1,4-dioxane, microplastics, and other endocrine disruptors.

PFAS

PFAS in the water cycle

PFAS chemicals have been manufactured and broadly used in commerce with little to no restrictions since the 1940s. As a result of this usage, PFAS have entered the water cycle and the environment from many sources. The potential for human exposure exists from consumer products, airborne particulate, crops, fish and grazing animals, food packaging (grease repellents), and groundwater supplies. BC is partnering with clients at all points of the water cycle to formulate actionable solutions that protect public health and the environment, and take into account rapidly changing regulations and shifting state policies.

Contact us

Services

Our emerging contaminants and PFAS services address the diverse and unique challenges facing clients.

Advisory services

  • Strategic and master planning
  • Regulatory guidance
  • Litigation support
  • Cost recovery and allocation assessments
  • Public communications
  • Permit negotiations

Site assessment and monitoring

  • Sampling and analysis plans
  • Analytical testing and data validation
  • Field services, including operations, maintenance, and monitoring
  • Environmental forensics
  • Groundwater modeling
  • Conceptual site models

Engineering and technology selection

  • Feasibility studies
  • Bench/pilot testing
  • Innovative technology development and evaluation
  • In-situ and ex-situ remediation systems
  • Process selection and design
  • Cost estimating
  • Design well intakes
  • Engineering design (conventional and advanced treatment systems)
  • Process optimization
  • Integrated project delivery

Shaping science-based policy

Through our collaboration with leading industry organizations such as the Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council (ITRC), partnering with clients to respond to regulator inquiries, and advising newly formed PFAS coalitions, BC’s experts are providing objective, scientifically-based information to shape state and federal regulations. Our regulatory experts across the U.S. maintain strong working relationships with local, state, and federal agencies to help clients negotiate favorable outcomes that protect public health and the environment and achieve other business objectives.

Treatability Testing

Our state-of-the-art testing laboratory is well equipped and staffed to evaluate PFAS and emerging contaminant treatment options quickly and with confidence, potentially reducing the cost and risk associated with facility design, construction, and operation. From rapid analysis using conventional physical, chemical, and biological methods, we quickly provide answers and solutions that keep pace with regulatory actions and fully address public concerns.

Treatment Technologies

We are working with various technology developers to advance innovative, destructive technologies and site management approaches that could potentially achieve cost effective and reliable solutions that minimize liabilities.

Learn more

Related News

Related News

Related Videos and Podcasts

Related Papers and Reports