American Water and Calgon Carbon Finalize Nine-Year Partnership to Tackle PFAS Contamination
American Water (NYSE: AWK), the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, has announced a strategic nine-year supply agreement with Calgon Carbon Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Co., Ltd. (TYO: 3405). This exclusive contract aims to enhance PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) treatment capabilities at over 50 American Water sites across 10 states.
The agreement underscores the companies’ shared commitment to ensuring safe, high-quality drinking water while adhering to stringent environmental standards. Under the partnership, Calgon Carbon will provide granular activated carbon (GAC), specialized equipment, and reactivation services to support American Water’s facilities in meeting and exceeding federal and local drinking water standards, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulations on PFAS.
A Shared Vision for Safe and Sustainable Water Treatment
“American Water remains steadfast in our commitment to protect our customers and the communities we serve by meeting or surpassing federal and local drinking water standards, including those regulations put forth by the U.S. EPA related to PFAS,” stated M. Susan Hardwick, Chief Executive Officer of American Water. “Our partnership with Calgon Carbon is a critical element in ensuring our facilities will continue to have the necessary equipment, supplies, and ongoing services to comply with current PFAS regulations and do so in an environmentally responsible way.”
This collaboration highlights the importance of adopting advanced treatment technologies to address the challenges posed by PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.
Innovative Solutions for PFAS Treatment
Calgon Carbon’s proprietary reactivation process is a key component of this agreement. The process has demonstrated the ability to destroy testable PFAS compounds to near non-detectable levels. Compared to alternative treatment methods, this reactivation process not only ensures effective PFAS removal but also significantly reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, making it an environmentally sustainable option.
The reactivation process involves regenerating used activated carbon, effectively extending its lifecycle and minimizing waste. This approach keeps spent carbon out of landfills, aligning with American Water’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
Jenalle Brewer, Senior Vice President of Drinking Water and Global Business Development at Calgon Carbon, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Calgon Carbon and American Water share a similar vision to remove PFAS and to continue to deliver safe drinking water to people across the U.S. We are excited about this strategic partnership to supply our Filtrasorb® activated carbon and AquaKnight™ equipment to American Water as they tackle the PFAS problem and protect communities across the country from forever chemicals.”
Brewer also commended American Water’s decision to incorporate environmentally sound and cost-effective reactivation services, which reduce the environmental impact of water treatment processes.
Meeting the Challenges of PFAS Regulations
The growing concern over PFAS contamination in drinking water has led to increased regulatory scrutiny and the establishment of stricter standards. The U.S. EPA has identified PFAS as a significant public health concern, prompting utilities across the nation to adopt advanced treatment technologies to ensure compliance.
American Water’s proactive approach reflects its leadership in the water and wastewater industry. By partnering with Calgon Carbon, the company aims to stay ahead of evolving regulations while maintaining its commitment to operational excellence and sustainability.
About the Partnership
Under the terms of the agreement, Calgon Carbon will supply its Filtrasorb® activated carbon, a product known for its high adsorption capacity and effectiveness in removing PFAS compounds from drinking water. Additionally, the AquaKnight™ equipment will enhance the efficiency and reliability of water treatment processes at American Water facilities.
The partnership also includes ongoing reactivation services, ensuring a continuous supply of regenerated activated carbon. This not only reduces the need for new carbon production but also supports a circular economy approach within the water treatment sector.
A Sustainable Future
As concerns over PFAS and other emerging contaminants continue to grow, partnerships like the one between American Water and Calgon Carbon demonstrate the importance of collaboration in addressing complex environmental challenges. By leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable practices, the two companies are setting a benchmark for the industry.
“This partnership represents a significant step forward in the fight against PFAS contamination,” said Hardwick. “Together, we are not only ensuring safe drinking water for our communities but also protecting the environment for future generations.”
With this agreement, American Water and Calgon Carbon reaffirm their commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable water solutions across the United States.
