NJPFAS

PFAS & New Jersey / New Jersey

Understand PFAS.
Start with water.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large group of synthetic chemicals often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body.

Watch PFAS 101 · 2:57 Check local information

Start here / Video

DOCUMENTARY/ NEW JERSEY

Introduction / 2 min 57 sec

Start with a short explanation.

Frank introduces PFAS in this short explainer video. Watch the introduction, then explore the science and New Jersey resources below.

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01 / The basics

A chemical family, not one substance.

PFAS are man-made chemicals used since the 1940s in industries and consumer products. Their resistance to heat, water, and oil makes them useful—and contributes to their persistence.

Perfluoroalkyl

Fully fluorinated carbon chains. Well-known examples include PFOA and PFOS.

Polyfluoroalkyl

Partially fluorinated carbon chains. Many can transform in the environment into perfluoroalkyl substances.

Read the classification guide

02 / Exposure

PFAS move through connected systems.

03

People & communities

Drinking water, food, products, and occupational settings can be relevant exposure routes.

Read the health overview

03 / New Jersey

An early response to a persistent problem.

NJDEP first identified PFAS as an issue of concern in 2006. New Jersey subsequently established enforceable drinking-water limits for PFNA, PFOA, and PFOS.

PFNA

13 pptAdopted 2018

PFOA

14 pptAdopted 2020

PFOS

13 pptAdopted 2020
Read the New Jersey policy overview

04 / For residents

Turn understanding into a next step.

Local information

Check your water source

Public-water users can review utility records; private-well owners can arrange certified testing.

Find local information
Read further

Explore the science

Continue with PFAS history, classification, detection, removal, and the project’s research.

Browse science & solutions
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