Letter to the editor: Hollywood, science & clean water

Regarding the review “Ominous ‘Dark Waters’ is like ‘Chernobyl’ for America” (Nov. 27, TribLIVE): I have spent my career ensuring that Americans have clean water. Regulations must be grounded in science. Increasingly, facts are being disregarded or misinterpreted in order to manipulate public perception.

These dynamics are evident in the recent Hollywood film “Dark Waters,” which is serving as a rallying cry for those calling for a ban on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of over 5,000 chemicals, all with different qualities and risk profiles.

To treat PFAS chemicals as a single dangerous class, as done by “Dark Waters,” incorrectly assumes that they present the same level of risk, regardless of their structure, health risks and exposure pathways. In science, nuance is important — it helps us to avoid misinformation and hyperbole. Despite progress, PFAS chemicals still need further study. Industry is developing effective substitutes for the most bio-persistent chemicals while addressing past releases of PFAS in the environment.

Hollywood shouldn’t drive the agenda on PFAS. Congress should rely on government, private/academic and industry scientists to provide advice on PFAS, not actors or Hollywood producers. Protecting human health and the environment is too important.

Chris Wiant

Denver, Colo.

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The writer is a public health professional who has worked with communities on environmental hazards for 50 years.