What is the difference between microplastics and PFAS? Learn how each contaminant impacts water and soil, why the difference matters for Florida sites, and what responsible property owners should do.
As emerging contaminants continue to shape environmental regulations, two materials are drawing particular attention: microplastics and PFAS. These pollutants pose growing challenges for landowners, developers, and regulators alike — especially in Florida, where sensitive ecosystems and groundwater resources are at stake.
Both microplastics and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are pervasive in the environment. Although they often emerge in the same conversations regarding water and soil quality, they differ significantly in their chemical nature, sources, and associated risks.
Understanding these differences is crucial for landowners, developers, and environmental professionals, particularly in Florida’s unique geology and regulatory framework.
Understanding Microplastics
Microplastics are plastic particles, usually smaller than 5 mm, or sometimes as small as 1 nanometer, that result from the degradation or manufacturing of plastics.
They originate from sources such as synthetic clothing fibers, plastic packaging, tire wear, and the fragmentation of larger plastic items. Once released, they are increasingly found in soils, waterways, and even drinking water systems.
Microplastics pose challenges because:
- Their physical nature means they often require mechanical separation or filtration for removal.
- They may carry or adsorb other pollutants (including PFAS) on their surfaces.
In Florida, where water tables are high and surface/groundwater interactions are frequent, microplastic contamination is emerging as a concern for developers, especially in stormwater, reclaimed waters, and soils near older infrastructure.
Understanding PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
PFAS are synthetic chemicals widely known as “forever chemicals” because of their strong carbon-fluorine bonds and extreme persistence in the environment.
They have been used in firefighting foams, nonstick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, and many industrial applications. PFAS bioaccumulate and have been linked to serious health issues, including immune and reproductive system impacts.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued national drinking water standards for PFAS in April 2024, making them legally enforceable contaminants. For property owners and developers in Florida, PFAS pose a regulatory and remediation risk that calls for early due diligence and specialized cleanup planning.
PFAS vs Microplastics — Key Differences
While PFAS and microplastics are often mentioned together, they differ greatly in composition and behavior. Unlike microplastics, PFAS dissolve easily in water and can migrate through soil into groundwater, where they accumulate and persist for decades.
PFAS are linked to well-documented health risks and are now regulated under EPA drinking water and hazardous substance rules, while microplastics remain largely unregulated but are increasingly monitored as emerging contaminants.
Understanding PFAS vs microplastics is essential when developing remediation strategies, planning site reuse, or negotiating transactions in Florida.
Microplastics and PFAS in Water Systems
Both contaminants are critical when it comes to water quality and site development in Florida. Microplastics can hitch rides on stormwater discharge, reclaimed water systems, or soil erosion events. PFAS, conversely, migrate through groundwater, accumulate in aquifers, and may trigger strict regulatory cleanup obligations. Evidence suggests that microplastics can adsorb PFAS, increasing concerns about combined toxicity.
For developers and landowners, any redevelopment near waterways, wetlands, or former industrial sites should consider both microplastics and PFAS in assessment planning. Working with a consultant who understands both contaminants is a competitive advantage.
What Florida Developers and Landowners Should Do
Proactive steps include:
- Incorporate microplastics and PFAS screening into your Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
- Ask whether the consulting firm evaluates emerging contaminants (microplastics) and regulated ones (PFAS).
- When contamination is found, choose restoration experts who are experienced with both physical and chemical remediation techniques.
- For Florida sites, ensure consultants understand state and federal regulations, geology, and permitting pathways.
Creative Environmental Solutions (CES) provides comprehensive solutions, encompassing site assessment and remediation, as well as monitoring and permitting.
How Environmental Restoration Experts Support You
Choosing the right restoration partner is about more than solving a contamination problem—it’s about safeguarding your project’s viability. In this case study of a former salvage yard in Florida, both microplastics and PFAS-like legacy coatings were evaluated, enabling the site to move toward redevelopment under budget and ahead of schedule.
With a multi-discipline team of geologists, engineers, and remediation specialists, CES integrates technical assessments, regulatory strategy, and financial planning so you’re prepared for today’s remediation needs and tomorrow’s compliance demands.
FAQ: Microplastics and PFAS in Site Redevelopment
Can standard EPA drinking-water limits apply to microplastics?
Currently, there are no nationally enforceable drinking water standards for microplastics. The EPA is considering adding them to the Sixth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 6).
How quickly should a developer test for PFAS?
Ideally, screening for PFAS should occur during due diligence—before acquisition—so you fully understand risk and remediation obligations.
Will microplastics trigger cleanup liability like PFAS?
Not yet in the same way, but emerging science shows microplastics may carry PFAS and other pollutants, which could raise future liability.
Are microplastics easier to remediate than PFAS?
Not necessarily. While microplastics can be removed physically, many sites face complex filtration challenges. PFAS require advanced chemistry and regulatory frameworks—both of which demand experience.
Partner with CES for Emerging Contaminant Strategy
For Florida developers and landowners asking, “What is the difference between microplastics and PFAS — and what does it mean for my property?” CES is here to help. With over 30 years of experience assessing and remediating contaminated sites across Florida, Creative Environmental Solutions understands how emerging contaminants like these can complicate redevelopment, permitting, and compliance efforts.
Whether you’re undergoing an ESA, planning redevelopment, or negotiating liability in a purchase, our integrated contamination assessment and remediation services help you stay ahead of the curve. Contact us today to begin your site strategy.
