Comprehensive Coverage of Forever Chemicals (PFAS) in Water: A Journalistic Guide
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," are posing significant challenges to both the environment and human health.
These resilient chemicals, used extensively in various products, have earned their nickname because they are exceptionally resistant to degradation. PFAS have infiltrated sources of drinking water across the United States, with alarming contamination levels. To effectively cover stories related to PFAS in water, journalists must navigate this complex topic with precision and diligence.
Here are seven essential steps to guide comprehensive reporting on forever chemicals in water:
Start with the Basics
Journalists should familiarize themselves with the fundamentals of PFAS: PFAS encompasses over 12,000 man-made chemicals, each with distinct properties. These chemicals' robust structure, consisting of linked carbon and fluorine atoms, makes them incredibly durable and difficult to break down, both in the environment and the human body. Additionally, journalists should be aware of the various health concerns associated with specific PFAS chemicals, including links to cancer, autoimmune diseases, thyroid issues, liver disease, fetal complications, vaccine resistance, and high cholesterol. Spending time researching these basics, especially if you lack a science or health coverage background, is highly recommended.
Stay Informed About Regulations
Keep a close eye on the evolving landscape of PFAS regulations at both the national and local levels. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently proposed limits on six PFAS chemicals in drinking water under the Safe Water Drinking Act. The implications of these regulations, including their coverage and potential impact on municipal water systems, is crucial to include in accurate reporting. Many states are already regulating or considering PFAS in drinking water, so monitoring regional developments is equally important.
Be Specific and Accurate with Terminology
Precision in terminology is vital. While PFAS are made of thousands of chemicals, not all of those ingredients are equally concerning. Be cautious about making broad statements, especially regarding links to cancer, a hot button topic as scientific evidence may vary among different PFAS compounds. Distinguish between "toxins" and "toxicants”—toxins come from natural causes, while toxicants are man made. Therefore, “toxicants” is the correct descriptor for PFAS. "Toxic chemicals'' is also an accurate term to describe PFAS.
Maintain High Standards for Accuracy
Note the degree of certainty in claims made by various parties, including advocates and industry representatives. Avoid sensationalizing findings, especially concerning cancer, as proving such links scientifically is challenging. Fact-checking should be a routine practice in PFAS reporting.
Collaborate with Toxicologists
Establish connections with toxicologists, particularly those with expertise in PFAS and drinking water. Public health officials, public works professionals, or university toxicologists familiar with PFAS can provide valuable insights and serve as reliable sources. They can help journalists navigate the complex science behind PFAS and clarify any misconceptions.
Monitor Academic Research
Stay updated on the latest research in the field of PFAS, focusing on areas such as human health impacts, PFAS destruction methods, and environmental distribution. Keep in mind that only a fraction of academic research makes its way into the news media, so actively seek out studies and engage with their corresponding authors to access valuable information. Services like PubMed and EurekAlert! can aid in tracking scientific publications.
Attend Local Meetings and Hearings
Engage directly with local communities affected by PFAS contamination by attending public water board or local government meetings where PFAS issues are discussed. State hearings related to PFAS legislation can also provide valuable insights and story ideas. Such interactions can lead to compelling narratives that provide a human perspective on the challenges posed by PFAS in water.
PFAS contamination is a complex and evolving topic, and journalists play a crucial role in keeping the public informed and advocating for solutions to this pressing environmental and health challenge. Journalists need to take a holistic approach to covering PFAs, as well as meticulously consulting data and experts to keep up with changing information. By doing so, the public can make more informed choices on their personal health.
