DELAWARE. – Delaware officials have released a new statewide plan aimed at addressing so-called PFAS – or “forever chemicals” – and other emerging contaminants that pose risks to public health and the environment.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, along with the Division of Public Health and the Department of Agriculture, announced the 2026 Strategic Framework for Contaminants of Emerging Concern and a companion PFAS Implementation Plan on Tuesday.
Together, the documents outline a coordinated, science-based approach to identifying, assessing and reducing risks from contaminants that can affect drinking water, food supplies and ecosystems across the state.
PFAS – or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances – are a key focus of the plan. The synthetic chemicals are commonly found in products such as nonstick cookware, food packaging and firefighting foam. Because they break down very slowly, they can accumulate in the environment and the human body over time.
State officials said the new plan builds on nearly a decade of work to address PFAS contamination in Delaware.
Efforts already underway include statewide water sampling, monitoring of wastewater and biosolids, and testing of fish and wildlife. In 2025, Delaware also enacted a law requiring public notification when PFAS are detected in public water systems.
Officials said additional initiatives are planned for 2026, including a free private well testing program and expanded community outreach efforts to help residents better understand and reduce their exposure.
The broader strategic framework also addresses other contaminants of emerging concern, including microplastics, pharmaceuticals and pesticides – many of which lack clear regulatory standards.
The plan outlines six priority areas, including protecting public health, identifying sources of contamination, reducing exposure, engaging communities and strengthening emergency response.
Much of the state’s PFAS-related work is funded through a legal settlement reached in 2021 with chemical companies DuPont, Chemours and Corteva.
State leaders say the framework is designed to be adaptive, allowing agencies to respond to evolving science and emerging threats while providing regular updates on progress.
Annual reports on the state’s efforts will be released as additional plans are developed.