Navigating PFAS Remediation in New England: What Property Owners and Developers Need to Know in 2025

The landscape of environmental consulting in New England has dramatically evolved over the past few years, with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination emerging as one of the most pressing challenges facing property owners, developers, and environmental professionals. As a New England-based environmental consulting firm, TERRA Environmental has been at the forefront of helping clients navigate this complex and rapidly changing regulatory environment.

The Growing PFAS Challenge

PFAS, often called "forever chemicals" due to their environmental persistence, have become a critical concern across New England and the nation. EPA estimates there are over 26,000 sites contaminated with PFAS in the United States, including 126 military bases through their use of firefighting foams. Throughout New England, the presence of these chemicals in groundwater, soil, and surface water poses significant challenges for environmental compliance and human health protection.

The scope of this issue is staggering. Recent market analysis shows that site count and estimated remediation costs for PFAS exceed 44,000 sites and $138 billion nationwide, with the PFAS remediation market projected to grow from USD 1.125 billion in 2023 to USD 2.65 billion by 2030.

New England Regulatory Landscape

New England states have been proactive in addressing PFAS contamination, with Massachusetts leading the way through MassDEP's implementation of cumulative impact analysis (CIA) requirements for comprehensive plan approval applications for new and modified facilities that would increase emissions in or near environmental justice (EJ) populations. These regulations, which became effective in March 2024, represent a significant shift in how environmental impacts are assessed throughout the region.

Similar regulatory developments are occurring across New England, with states like Connecticut, Vermont, and New Hampshire implementing their own PFAS monitoring and remediation requirements. The region's approach aligns with federal initiatives, including the US EPA's institution of the lowest acceptable concentration levels for PFAS in the world: 4 ppt (parts per trillion) each for PFOA and PFOS, 10 ppt each for PFHxS, GenX, and PFNA. These stringent standards underscore the seriousness with which regulators are treating PFAS contamination.

Key Considerations for New England Property Owners

1. Enhanced Site Assessment Requirements

Under updated environmental regulations across New England, property assessments now require more comprehensive PFAS testing. With EPA designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, including PFAS in site assessments is more important than ever. This means Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments must now consider potential PFAS sources and pathways throughout the region.

2. Impact on Development Projects

Environmental review processes across New England states now include enhanced opportunities for public participation and comment, particularly for projects that may impact environmental justice communities. Developers must be prepared for more rigorous environmental documentation and longer review timelines across all six New England states.

3. Climate Change Integration

New England's environmental regulations increasingly incorporate climate change considerations. Massachusetts' Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2025 and 2030 sets aggressive emissions reduction targets of 33 percent below 1990 levels by 2025 and 50 percent by 2030, with similar initiatives underway throughout the region. This means environmental remediation projects must also consider their carbon footprint and sustainability implications.

Emerging Remediation Technologies

The PFAS remediation technology landscape is rapidly evolving. Current approaches include well-known technologies for water treatment, such as granular activated carbon and ion exchange resins, and emerging technologies like foam fractionation. However, the focus has shifted toward PFAS destruction technologies, as key stakeholders, including regulators and the public, worry about the possibility of PFAS that was initially removed escaping back into the environment.

The Economic Reality

The costs associated with PFAS remediation are substantial. Current estimates suggest that removing perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) from the environment at the same rate they are being added would cost 20 to 7000 trillion USD per year. While complete environmental remediation may not be economically feasible, targeted treatment of critical environmental media remains essential for protecting human health and achieving regulatory compliance.

Best Practices for New England Stakeholders

For Property Owners:

• Proactive Assessment: Conduct comprehensive PFAS testing as part of routine environmental due diligence

• Historical Research: Investigate past uses of firefighting foams, industrial processes, and waste disposal practices

• Regulatory Monitoring: Stay informed about evolving state and federal PFAS regulations

For Developers:

• Early Engagement: Involve environmental consultants in project planning from the earliest stages

• Community Outreach: Prepare for enhanced public participation requirements, especially in environmental justice communities

• Technology Assessment: Consider emerging remediation technologies and their long-term effectiveness

Looking Ahead

The PFAS challenge in New England will continue to evolve as scientific understanding advances and regulations become more stringent. Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on improving existing PFAS remediation technologies and developing innovative methods, including advancements in activated carbon systems, ion exchange resins, and advanced oxidation processes.

Success in this environment requires a comprehensive approach that combines technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and strategic planning. Environmental consulting firms like TERRA Environmental play a crucial role in helping clients navigate these challenges while achieving their business and environmental objectives.

Conclusion

PFAS remediation represents one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time, with implications that extend far beyond traditional contamination issues. In New England, where environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance are paramount, property owners and developers must be prepared to address PFAS contamination proactively and comprehensively.

The key to success lies in early identification, appropriate assessment, and strategic remediation planning. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve and new technologies emerge, having experienced environmental consultants as partners becomes increasingly valuable.

At TERRA Environmental, we're committed to helping our clients understand and address these challenges while achieving their business objectives. The future of environmental consulting in New England will be defined by our ability to adapt to emerging contaminants like PFAS while maintaining our commitment to protecting human health and the environment.

For more information about PFAS assessment and remediation services in New England, contact TERRA Environmental. Our experienced team of environmental professionals is ready to help you navigate the complex regulatory landscape and develop effective solutions for your specific needs.