Louisville’s PFAS Problem

The Louisville Water Company regularly tests its water for PFAS contamination, finding a consistent increase in levels of certain “forever chemicals.” PFAS are concentrated in all kinds of everyday items, from raincoats to food wrappers and exposure can lead to health risks like cancer and high cholesterol. Louisville tracked an unexpected spike in one PFAS chemical, referred to as GenX in December 2024, with levels 15 times higher than they were the previous month. GenX contamination likely stems from its use in manufacturing at Chemours Co, a company on the Ohio River that makes semiconductors for our phones. The GenX levels in Louisville have returned to a normal level in the last year, but regulation and removal of PFAS is an imperative step forward to cleaning up our drinking water. Our Health Equity advocates for specific and actionable solutions to PFAS exposure that ensure all Americans have access to clean drinking water. Read more here.