Sulfolane Contamination in North Pole, Alaska: Can Government Fix the Problem?

Abstract:
In North Pole, Alaska, the chemical compound sulfolane has contaminated groundwater in a plume nearly 3.5 miles long, impacting homes using private well water systems. Sulfolane has also been detected in vegetables that were grown in contaminated soils in residents’ gardens. The groundwater plume can be found above and below a layer of permafrost. Remediation of sulfolane can be accomplished by aerating water and soil; however, it is difficult and costly to reach the groundwater that lies beneath the permafrost, where sulfolane remains trapped in some areas. Private wells that are used by residents and businesses have been affected; currently, only buildings within the small boundaries of the city limits are on a public water utility system. Ultimately, the State of Alaska has the responsibility to correct the contamination and ensure clean water for residents. What is an acceptable limit for this contaminant in drinking water when there has been no precedent for such a spill? Evaluation and correction of the situation continues with assistance from the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. A pending study of health precautions will be released by EPA in 2019.