POSTED 10-14-2025 What Are PFAS? PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in a wide range of products since the 1940s, including nonstick cookware, food packaging, textiles, and firefighting foam. Because of their resistance to heat, water, and oil, PFAS have been widely adopted across industrial and consumer applications. That same resistance also makes PFAS extremely persistent in the environment. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” they do not break down easily and can remain in soil, groundwater, and wastewater streams for years. As a result, PFAS in wastewater have become a growing concern for municipalities, utilities, and engineering professionals. Where are PFAS Found? Although prominent compounds like PFOA and PFOS have been phased out in the United States, thousands of related chemicals are still used today. These substances continue to enter wastewater systems through everyday sources, including food packaging, household products, personal care items, and industrial discharges. Over time, many of these materials end up in landfills, contributing to PFAS contamination in landfill leachate. Long-chain PFAS are especially concerning due to their tendency to accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms. These compounds have been linked to serious health risks, including cancer, immune system disruption, and metabolic disorders. Short-chain PFAS, while less likely to bioaccumulate, still contribute to environmental and public health risks through mechanisms like oxidative stress and inflammation. Both types are extremely difficult to remove from water, making PFAS treatment a complex challenge. Challenges in Wastewater Treatment Systems PFAS represent a unique and pressing issue for wastewater treatment facilities. Landfills generate leachate containing high concentrations of PFAS, which are often transported to wastewater treatment plants for processing. In some cases, accepting landfill leachate containing PFAS can provide an additional revenue stream, but it requires careful evaluation, operational readiness, and advanced PFAS removal strategies. Long-chain PFAS bind to biosolids and are typically captured during solids handling processes. Short-chain PFAS are more mobile and remain in the liquid phase, becoming concentrated in recycled or side-stream flows. This separation complicates removal and increases the likelihood of PFAS reentering the environment if not properly managed. As state and federal regulations evolve, utilities are under increasing pressure to assess PFAS risks and adopt effective and sustainable treatment methods. Engineering firms are critical in helping communities adapt their systems to this emerging challenge. Treatment Strategies and Engineering Solutions While research continues to explore the long-term effects of low-level PFAS exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations, many utilities are already taking steps to evaluate and mitigate their PFAS footprint. This includes process audits, source tracking, and capital planning for advanced PFAS treatment technologies such as activated carbon, ion exchange, or high-pressure membrane systems. Creating a treatment strategy for PFAS in wastewater requires a tailored approach, as no universal solution exists. Every facility should consider operational constraints, permit limits, influent profiles, and the specific types of PFAS present in their system. For facilities contemplating the acceptance of landfill leachate, it is crucial to understand how these chemicals will move through the plant and identify effective interception points. As an engineering firm with extensive experience in wastewater infrastructure and PFAS planning, we assist clients in assessing their exposure and identifying suitable solutions. Whether you are looking to upgrade existing treatment systems, evaluate new technologies, or understand the potential impact of PFAS at your facility, we are here to help you make informed decisions. If your facility is planning for PFAS treatment or evaluating wastewater management strategies, our team is ready to help you navigate the challenges associated with these persistent chemicals. Learn more about our Drinking Water & Wastewater team.