Reflecting on my recent participation in three panel discussions at Battelle’s 2024 Chlorinated Conference in June, I was struck by how the conversations interlinked and built upon one another. The conference underscored a shared sense of urgency and collaborative energy, particularly in tackling PFAS challenges. This sense of momentum is crucial as we navigate the complexities of PFAS contamination and its far-reaching impacts.

Building a Common Language for PFAS Solutions

As the conference progressed, it became evident that we've moved past merely understanding the magnitude of the PFAS issue. Now, the industry conversation is advancing towards actionable solutions. This transition marks a pivotal moment — a snapshot in time — where we are not just acknowledging the problem but actively seeking solutions. Across the panels, a common theme emerged: the importance of developing a unified language around PFAS. This shared understanding is vital for fostering effective communication among geologists, environmental scientists, technologists, engineers and risk assessors. Over the years, these professionals have increasingly adopted each other’s terminologies, allowing for more cohesive and productive dialogues not only with each other, but critically with the general public.

Optimism and Technological Transfer

The atmosphere at the conference was notably optimistic in the face of clear technical and societal costs for PFAS cleanup. There was a strong sense of hope as industry experts acknowledged the need for extensive technology transfer and cross-disciplinary learning. This sentiment aligns with our experience at AECOM, where we embrace a technology-agnostic approach. Recognizing that no single solution can address the myriad challenges posed by PFAS, it is crucial for us to learn from one another and adapt technologies across different media and regions. This collaborative spirit will be key to developing effective, scalable solutions.

The Role of Diverse Perspectives

The panels featured a diverse mix of private and public sector representatives, including federal regulators, state-level officials, industry leaders, and international experts. This broad representation enriched the discussions and highlighted the varying needs and priorities within the PFAS landscape. For example, Department of Defense clients emphasized the urgency of advancing research and technology to tackle PFAS contamination effectively. Their recent completion of over 400 site investigations exemplifies the scale and complexity of the challenge we face.

Navigating the Complexity of PFAS Technologies

One of the critical takeaways from the conference was the need to demystify PFAS treatment technologies. As we explore destructive technologies and other advanced solutions, it's clear we are dealing with a diverse array of approaches — each with its unique application. Understanding and comparing these technologies requires us to move beyond simplistic categorizations and develop a common technically accurate language. This clarity is essential to ensure stakeholders can make informed decisions and select the optimal solution for their PFAS challenges.

The Importance of Inclusivity in Solutions

In addressing PFAS, it's not just about finding solutions for large-scale utilities but also supporting small and historically underserved communities disproportionately affected by PFAS. These communities often face greater challenges due to existing water equity issues. Federal funding and initiatives increasingly prioritize providing treatment solutions to these vulnerable populations. This inclusive approach ensures that we do not leave anyone behind as we strive to mitigate PFAS impacts.

Looking Forward: A Future of Innovation and Collaboration

As we look to the future, the PFAS challenge will demand innovative solutions and collaborative efforts across all levels of expertise. The conference highlighted that while we are still in the early stages —barely walking, so to speak— there is immense potential for growth and progress. Digital transformations and data management will play a crucial role in handling the complexities of PFAS-contaminated media and locations, regardless of their size.

In conclusion, the conference reinforced my belief in our collective ability to overcome PFAS challenges. By harnessing a collaborative momentum, fostering a common language, and embracing optimism, we can advance towards effective, sustainable solutions. Together, we can build a resilient future where communities and ecosystems are better safeguarded from PFAS impacts.