COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Ohio is expanding a program that helps fire departments safely dispose of firefighting foam containing PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.”
Governor Mike DeWine is directing more than $13 million from a recent DuPont settlement to expand the state’s AFFF Takeback Program.
Since the program launched in 2024, more than 13,500 gallons of toxic firefighting foam have been destroyed after being collected from 118 fire departments and two airports.
Ohio EPA estimates at least 60,000 gallons of the foam remain in storage across the state.
AFFF, or aqueous film-forming foam, was commonly used to fight flammable liquid fires. Many fire departments have switched to PFAS-free alternatives because PFAS chemicals can remain in the environment for long periods and have been linked to health concerns.
Eligible fire departments, emergency management agencies and airports can register foam for destruction through Sept. 4, 2026.
The program uses technology developed by Battelle to permanently destroy the PFAS-containing material.
Ohio has also taken other steps to reduce PFAS exposure, including testing public drinking water systems and banning the use of AFFF in firefighter training exercises in 2022.
