Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are a large group of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used for their durability and water- and stain-resistant properties since the 1940s. PFAS exposure comes from various sources, including ingesting contaminated water and food, and coming into contact with PFAS-laden products, such as clothing, furniture, cookware, and certain personal hygiene items.

PFAS enter the environment when manufacturers produce products with the chemicals, releasing them directly into our water and air. PFAS do not break down naturally, so can build up in the environment, with increasing levels in water, food, and soil over time. They are also released when we throw away products containing the chemicals and are excreted through our own bodily waste.

Recent news articles focus on PFAS in drinking water because, by law, it is regularly tested for potentially harmful chemicals, unlike many of the other things we eat, drink, and breathe. But Plantation residents can rest easy – we have been enjoying the advanced protections of nanofiltration for decades. 

Nanofiltration is an innovative water treatment technology that effectively removes contaminants, including PFAS, while allowing essential minerals to pass through the membrane element. Nanofiltration works by pumping filtered water through a configuration of numerous fiberglass tubes that contain thin film composite membranes. Each membrane is semi-permeable, with clean water passing through more readily than undesirable elements, allowing for the separation and elimination of impurities. The purified water then undergoes additional treatment before it is collected and delivered to you.
 

Plantation remains committed to staying informed about emerging technologies and regulations. In anticipation of the EPA’s 2024 PFAS regulations, we have scheduled water sample testing in the coming year to confirm the high quality of our water. These results will be made public, providing transparency and assurance regarding the effectiveness of our advanced water treatments. 

The majority of PFAS exposure does not come from drinking water, with EPA estimating that 80% comes from other sources. We become exposed through swallowing, inhaling, or rubbing PFAS into our skin by using certain products, eating or drinking impacted food and water, and breathing in the dust in our homes. PFAS build up in the human body over time and are associated with some negative health effects, although research is ongoing to identify those risks and the levels at which they are harmful.

PFOA and PFOS are two common PFAS that are the focus of the proposed state and federal regulations, even though manufacturers stopped producing them in 2000. However, thousands of different PFAS chemical compounds are still in use, and more are being invented all the time. 

The effects of newer PFAS are still not known, but studies suggest that avoiding these harmful chemicals can make a big difference in our health. To empower you to minimize exposure from the most prevalent PFAS sources, we recommend making some simple lifestyle choices and adopting new habits when it comes to buying products as well as eating and cooking food. 

Plantation’s proactive approach to PFAS protection, advanced technology, and dedication to transparency ensure that surpassing water quality standards remains our top priority in the face of evolving environmental challenges. To help keep you informed, we have gathered additional resources you can explore.

PFAS and You

• Informative, short video on Plantations comprehensive PFAS protections.
• For questions or concerns about products, the EPA recommends contacting the Commission's Consumer Ombudsman at (301) 504-8120, emailing ConsumerOmbudsman@cpsc.gov , or visiting the CSPC's website. 

Frequently Asked Questions 
Answers to some of your most pressing questions on PFAS, its sources, and how to reduce exposure. 

Water Filtration
Understand how our water filtration system works on our Water Treatment page or view the nanofiltration explainer.

Health Risks 
Learn more about the EPA’s ongoing studies on PFAS health risks on their website.