EPA Rescinds Approval for Importing GenX Waste to Chemours Plant in North Carolina

Why It Matters:

This decision by the EPA is significant as it aligns with North Carolina's commitment to reducing PFAS pollution and holds Chemours accountable for addressing the impacts of GenX contamination on residents in multiple counties.

The Details:

• The EPA rescinded its approval for the import of GenX waste material from the Netherlands to the Chemours Fayetteville Works Plant in North Carolina.

• Governor Cooper had urged the EPA to reverse the original approval in a letter sent on November 3.

• The decision came after the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) provided information to the EPA regarding the potential environmental impact of the imports.

• Chemours, in its response to DEQ's questions, acknowledged errors in the export volume requested and stated that the plant was not capable of processing the amount of waste containing GenX as listed on the original approval.

• DEQ continues to hold Chemours accountable for addressing the impacts on residents in multiple counties and providing alternate water supplies to affected private well owners.

Conclusion:

The EPA's reversal of the approval for importing GenX waste material to the Chemours plant in North Carolina is a positive development in the state's efforts to ensure clean water and reduce PFAS pollution. Governor Cooper and DEQ Secretary Elizabeth S. Biser have expressed appreciation for the EPA's decision, which aligns with North Carolina's commitment to holding companies like Chemours accountable for their environmental impact.