Kyla Bennett, Ph.D., J.D., Director of Science Policy and Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Director at Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), presented at the WMCCA webinar on “Forever Chemicals: What They Are, How You’re Exposed, and What You Can Do.” Click here to watch a video of the presentation.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” are persistent synthetic compounds that do not break down in the environment or the human body. They’ve been linked to serious health risks and are now being detected in drinking water, food packaging, household products, and even human blood.
Dr. Bennett brings decades of experience at the intersection of science, law, and environmental policy. A former EPA wetland permit reviewer and enforcement coordinator turned whistleblower, she now works to support public environmental professionals and strengthen environmental protections.
In this webinar, Dr. Bennett shares
- What PFAS are and why they’re called “forever chemicals”
- How exposure happens in everyday life
- The latest science and regulatory developments
- Practical steps individuals and communities can take
About Kyla Bennett, Ph.D., J.D.,
Director of Science Policy; Northeast & Mid-Atlantic Director
Kyla first became involved with PEER in the mid-1990s when she became a whistleblower herself. She previously worked at the United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 1 for 10 years as a wetland permit reviewer and as the Region’s Wetlands Enforcement Coordinator. Kyla’s familiarity with science, the law, and the inner workings of state and federal governmental agencies enable her to assist public environmental employees throughout New England. She has a Ph.D. in ecology from the University of Connecticut and a law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School in Portland, Oregon.
About Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER)
Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) is a nonprofit service organization dedicated to supporting environmental and public health professionals, land managers, scientists, enforcement officers, and other civil servants committed to upholding environmental laws and values.
PEER works with current and former federal, state, local, and tribal employees who seek a higher standard of environmental ethics and scientific integrity within their agencies. They defend whistleblowers, expose improper or illegal government actions, advocate for stronger laws and regulations, and support the work of allied organizations.
West Montgomery County Citizens Association 