The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) is now requiring water utilities to test sewage sludge known as biosolids for PFAS before using them as fertilizer on farmland. PFAS, a category of chemicals used in everything from non-stick cooking to firefighting foam to waterproof clothing, are often called “forever chemicals” and are linked to cancer.
The change doesn’t mean local utilities will stop using biosolids in the state.
The change requires utilities to test biosolids used on farmland for PFAS within 90 days of getting a permit and again annually, but there is no requirement to do anything based on the test results.
In the announcement of the new rule, TDEC officials said only the EPA can ban biosolids on farmland outright. They noted some public comments had sought a state ban.
