FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 19, 2024
CONTACT:
Steven Fantes, Public Affairs Manager
617-817-1297 and steven.fantes@environmentalprotectionnetwork.org
Environmental Protection Network Welcomes EPA’s Designation of PFOA and PFOS as Hazardous Substances Under Superfund
Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated two additional per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as hazardous under the Superfund law, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). This action will help hold polluters and manufacturers of PFOS and PFOA accountable for cleaning up contamination.
In response, Walter Mugdan, a volunteer with the Environmental Protection Network and the former Superfund Director, EPA Region 2, released the following statement:
“EPA’s landmark action will allow the agency to more strongly address PFAS contamination and expedite cleanups of these toxic forever chemicals while also ensuring that cleanup costs fall on those most responsible – the industrial polluters who continue to manufacture and use them. This action, coupled with EPA’s recent announcement of limits on PFAS in drinking water, are critical steps in protecting the public from these harmful compounds.”
Walter Mugdan is available to speak to the media about the designation and its effects on public health and the environment.
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About Walter Mugdan: Walter Mugdan worked at EPA for 48 years in many roles, including most recently serving as EPA Region 2 Deputy Regional Administrator and Superfund Director. Since retiring in 2023, he has remained active with several local environmental and conservation groups as well as volunteering with the Environmental Protection Network.
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ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NETWORK
Founded in 2017, the Environmental Protection Network harnesses the expertise of more than 650 former EPA career staff and confirmation-level appointees from Democratic and Republican administrations to provide the unique perspective of former scientists and regulators with decades of historical knowledge and subject matter expertise.