PFAS and Nonpoint Source Runoff: Protecting Hawaii’s Waterways
Clean water is vital for Hawaii’s ecosystems, communities, and culture. However, many of the islands’ streams, wetlands, and coastal waters are under threat from pollutants that are not always obvious. Two major culprits are PFAS chemicals and nonpoint source runoff.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals used in everyday products like firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. Known as “forever chemicals,” they don’t break down easily in the environment and can accumulate in water, soil, and living organisms.
Why PFAS Matter in Hawaii:
PFAS have been found in drinking water sources, streams, and coastal waters across the U.S., including areas in Hawaii.
These chemicals are linked to health risks, including hormone disruption, immune system impacts, and certain cancers.
Because they persist in the environment, PFAS can travel through water systems, affecting rivers, fish, and ultimately people who rely on clean water for drinking, fishing, and cultural practices.
Nonpoint Source Runoff: A Hidden Threat
Nonpoint source runoff refers to pollution carried by rainwater or irrigation from diffuse sources, like:
Agricultural fields (fertilizers, pesticides)
Urban areas (oil, chemicals, sediment)
Construction sites (soil erosion)
Unlike a single pipe discharging waste, nonpoint source pollution is harder to monitor and regulate, but it’s a major contributor to degraded water quality, coral reef damage, and ecosystem stress in Hawaii.
The Impact on Hawaii’s Ecosystems
Streams and Aquifers: Pollutants seep into freshwater sources used for drinking and irrigation.
Coastal Waters: Runoff carries sediment and chemicals to the ocean, smothering corals and harming marine life.
Cultural Practices: Traditional fishing and aquaculture, like loko iʻa (fishponds), are directly affected by polluted waters.
What’s Being Done
Testing and Monitoring: Agencies like the Hawaii Department of Health and the EPA are tracking PFAS contamination in drinking water and environmental sources.
Community Cleanups and Education: Volunteer groups and nonprofits work to reduce runoff, remove debris, and educate the public about pollution prevention.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging organic farming, proper chemical disposal, and native vegetation buffers can reduce nonpoint source pollution.
What You Can Do
Avoid using products containing PFAS when possible (stain-resistant fabrics, certain cookware, and some firefighting foams).
Support and participate in stream, wetland, and coastal cleanups.
Advocate for policies and practices that reduce chemical runoff in your community.
Educate yourself and others about the importance of protecting freshwater and coastal ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
PFAS and nonpoint source runoff are silent threats to Hawaii’s waterways, but awareness and action can make a difference. By reducing pollutants at the source, supporting restoration projects, and following sustainable practices, we can help keep Hawaii’s streams, reefs, and oceans healthy for generations to come.
