Health Risks of Sewage Fertilizer: Understanding the Dangers

Potential Health Risks of Using Treated Sewage Sludge

The use of treated sewage sludge, commonly referred to as biosolids, as fertilizer on farms has recently come under scrutiny due to its potential health risks. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these biosolids may contain harmful substances, specifically per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) known as 'forever chemicals'.

Understanding Forever Chemicals

Forever chemicals, as their name implies, do not break down easily in the environment. They have been associated with serious health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and various other illnesses. These substances persist in the environment, raising concerns about their accumulation in the food chain and potential exposure among the general population.

Extent of Biosolid Usage in Agriculture

Despite the known risks, biosolids are only applied to less than 1% of fertilized farm acres in the United States. Although this number seems minimal, studies highlight that even small amounts can be concerning, particularly for people residing near agricultural sites where these substances are used.

Evaluating Health Risks of Biosolids

The EPA's recent assessment evaluated hypothetical health risks for individuals living on or near farms utilizing treated biosolids. It also examined risks for those consuming products like eggs, beef, and drinking water sourced from these agricultural areas. Alarmingly, the assessment indicated that risks could exceed EPA thresholds by several times for certain individuals.

Guidelines for Protecting Public Health

This crucial assessment serves as guidance for both federal and state agencies, as well as for farmers and wastewater system operators, on how to mitigate potential exposure to PFAS. Jane Nishida, the acting administrator of the EPA, emphasized the importance of these guidelines in protecting public health.

New Standards for PFAS in Drinking Water

In a progressive step, the EPA introduced an unprecedented drinking water standard for PFAS in April. This new regulation aims to drastically reduce the number of health complications connected to these chemicals, potentially preventing tens of thousands of related deaths.

Conclusion: Importance of Safe Agricultural Practices

The findings of the EPA underscore the importance of adopting safe agricultural practices regarding the application of treated sewage sludge. As more is learned about the risks posed by biosolids, it becomes increasingly vital for farmers, regulators, and consumers to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 'forever chemicals'?

'Forever chemicals' refer to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that do not readily break down in the environment, potentially leading to harmful health effects.

How are biosolids used in agriculture?

Biosolids are treated sewage sludge used as fertilizer to enhance soil fertility and promote crop growth, although their use is limited to less than 1% of U.S. fertilized farm acres.

What health risks are associated with biosolids?

Biosolids can contain PFAS, which have been linked to serious health issues such as cancers and liver damage, especially for those living near application sites.

What is the EPA's new standard for PFAS?

The EPA established a new drinking water standard aimed at minimizing the health risks associated with PFAS exposure, which is expected to save many lives.

How can consumers ensure their safety?

Consumers can stay informed about where their food comes from and advocate for safer agricultural practices, helping to reduce potential exposure to harmful chemicals.

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