Forever chemicals are hiding everywhere. These five habits can help you avoid them. (From the archives)
Summary
Host Shmita Basu interviews investigative journalist Mariah Blake about her book on PFAS, or "forever chemicals." Blake details their origins in the Manhattan Project, the industry’s decades-long cover-up of health risks, and how grassroots activism in communities like Hoosic Falls drove regulatory change. She discusses current EPA policies, corporate phase-outs by companies like 3M, and practical steps individuals can take to reduce exposure through water filtration and product choices.
Topics discussed
Intro: Shmita Basu returns from parental leave
Michael Hickey's father's cancer and Hoosick Falls
Introduction to Maria Blake's book on PFAS
What are forever chemicals and their uses
Global pollution and primary exposure routes
Health risks and EPA zero-tolerance standard
Origin in the Manhattan Project and early toxicity
Corporate cover-up by 3M and DuPont
The West Virginia farmer lawsuit and study
Regulatory failures and industry influence
Hoosick Falls community activism and protests
Legal victories and community recovery in NY
Grassroots movement and firefighter advocacy
EPA leadership and Trump administration policies
Corporate phase-outs and market forces
Practical tips for reducing personal exposure
Outro and updated PFAS statistics
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