President Joe Biden announced during an invite-only stop in Wilmington a $3 billion investment to replace lead pipes across the country.
Public Health
EPA puts enforceable limits on PFAS in public water systems
The Environmental Protection Agency set nationwide maximum contaminant levels in public drinking water utilities for nearly a half-dozen per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
EPA overstepped its authority in PFAS order: Appeals court
The 5th Circuit vacated the Environmental Protection Agency’s attempt to stop a Texas-based firm from creating per-and-polyfluoroalkyl substances as a byproduct of its plastic containers manufacturing process.
EPA steps in on Lear Corp. permit; DEQ adds time for input
The Environmental Protection Agency has informed North Carolina regulators it has invoked a 60-day extension to review the automotive textile and technology manufacturer’s draft permit to discharge compounds into the Northeast Cape Fear River.
Dirty birds prompt worry over shellfish safety, state staffing
It’s rare for bird droppings to cause shellfish illness, but officials say there is potential, and the state Division of Marine Fisheries has fewer than 60 officers along the entire coast to do federally required inspections and check deterrent effectiveness.
Administration unveils $3B plan for cleaner air near ports
EPA Administrator Michael Regan announced the new federal program’s launch Wednesday at the N.C. Port of Wilmington.
Exposure study evolves to measure PFAS’ long-term effects
Researcher Jane Hoppin, who is leading a study of North Carolina residents exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in their drinking water, says the ongoing work will help in understanding how these compounds affect human health over time.
Progress steady toward opening Ocracoke Island pharmacy
Christie Woolard is set to open and manage the island’s first — and what could be North Carolina’s most remote — pharmacy.
State’s Native Americans at higher risk of preterm births
Native Americans in North Carolina face a disproportionately higher risk for preterm birth because of exposure to mixtures of toxic metals in their private drinking water wells, according to a recent study.
State on ‘aggressive’ timeline to meet PFAS water standards
North Carolina environmental regulators are expediting a plan to meet proposed federal limits on PFAS in drinking water and reduce related costs to consumers by addressing upstream discharges.
Utility chief meets with science board on PFAS request
The Cape Fear Public Utility Authority executive director met this week with state science advisers to discuss adding a persistent compound to the state’s priority per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances list.
Scientist urges more Vibrio awareness as risk moves north
Recent data finds that warming coastal waters from climate change impacts have resulted in Vibrio wound infections spreading north along the East Coast, and those with health issues are urged to immediately seek medical attention if exposed.
Saltwater fish may be in future Cape Fear health advisories
Results of saltwater fish tissue currently being analyzed for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid, or PFOS, are expected later this year, wrapping up a study of multiple species of fish collected from the Cape Fear River.
Judge finds court lacks authority in groups’ PFAS lawsuit
Chief U.S. District Judge Richard Myers II on Friday released his decision to dismiss a lawsuit that would have forced Chemours to pay for health studies on dozens of chemical compounds manufactured at its Fayetteville plant.
EPA rule would require water providers to monitor for PFAS
An Environmental Protection Agency rule would set limits on six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in public water systems with providers responsible for monitoring and notifying the public when levels exceed standards.
PFAS testing: 1,000 homes qualify for filtration or tap, so far
As PFAS sampling continues on private drinking wells, nearly 1,000 households downstream of Chemours’ Fayetteville Works plant have levels that qualify for in-home filtration systems or a public water utility connection.
