REACHing for PFAS solutions: how two communities responded to drinking water contamination
Kimberly K Garrett1, Kira Mok1,2, Phil Brown1,2
1Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Northeastern University, Renaissance Park 961, 1135 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02120, USA.
Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences
|December 10, 2025
Summary
Communities impacted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination show varied responses. Factors like contamination source and legislator activity influence activism and agency reactions, highlighting the need for equitable environmental justice.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Environmental Justice
Background:
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination is a growing concern in US water supplies.
- Community and governmental responses to PFAS contamination vary significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand factors influencing community responses to PFAS contamination.
- To compare community involvement and agency reactions in two affected locations.
Main Methods:
- Conducted 40 in-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews.
- Compared case studies of Pease Tradeport (Portsmouth, NH) and Hyannis, MA.
- Analyzed community activism, awareness, and agency responses.
Main Results:
- Differences observed in local activism, contamination awareness, and agency responses.
- Contamination source and legislator activity significantly influenced community experiences.
- Small resident groups generated knowledge impacting regulations and guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Structural barriers, including environmental justice inequities, affect community action outcomes.
- Effective advocacy approaches are crucial for communities navigating contamination discovery.
- Findings can guide other communities facing similar environmental contamination issues.
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