EPA Lists PFAS as “Chemicals of Special Concern” for Toxic Release Inventory Reporting

On October 31, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a rule finalizing Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) data reporting requirements for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), designating PFAS as “chemicals of special concern.” TRI data is reported by various industrial sectors to disclose to the surrounding community how listed chemicals are managed. Under this “chemicals of special concern” designation, PFAS are no longer eligible for the use of a de minimus exception, and, as a result, PFAS manufacturers must identify PFAS and notify downstream manufacturers of inclusion even if PFAS is used in low concentrations in such products as food packaging, carpet stain repellent, shampoo, dental floss, and nonstick cookware. Prior to this designation, PFAS inventories less than 100 pounds did not require reporting. This final rule is effective November 30, 2023 and applies for the reporting year beginning January 1, 2024 (reports due July 1, 2025).

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U.S. EPA Adds 12 Chemicals to Toxics Release Inventory

On November 30, 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that adds 12 chemicals to the list of chemicals subject to Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) reporting requirements.[1] Facilities that are covered by TRI and meet reporting requirements for these chemicals will now be required to report to EPA on quantities of these chemicals that are released into the environment or otherwise managed as waste. The first reports on these chemicals will be due to EPA July 1, 2024, for calendar year 2023 data.

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EPA Adds Four New PFAS to Toxic Release Inventory, Continues Addressing Strategic Roadmap Goals

As part of its continued focus on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) regulations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has added four PFAS substances to the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) list, including PFBS (perfluorobutane sulfonic acid) and potassium perfluorobutane sulfonate as well as two compounds listed at by their chemical identifier numbers — CASRN 65104-45-2 and CASRN 203743-03-7. (more…)