Sep. 3—Midland's oil and gas community is stepping up to support the Midland Fire Department's ongoing effort to transition away from firefighting foam containing PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals."

The Permian Basin Petroleum Association launched the "Sponsor a Fire Truck" initiative, challenging the industry to help fund the cleaning and transition of about 20 Midland Fire Department fire engines that currently carry Class B firefighting foam containing PFAS.

The cost to properly dispose of the foam and clean each fire engine is estimated at about $25,000 per truck. Permian Resources became the second company this week to respond, donating $25,000 to clean one of the engines. Ovintiv, Diamondback Energy and Plains All American have also committed to supporting the initiative.

"As an industry, we have a responsibility to be proactive in addressing environmental challenges, and helping the Midland Fire Department transition away from PFAS-containing foam is a meaningful step in that direction," said PBPA President Ben Shepperd. "This initiative is also about smart risk management. By working together now, our industry can support our first responders, protect our community and environment, and help prevent significant remediation costs down the road."

The Midland Fire Department's effort is part of a nationwide transition away from PFAS-containing firefighting foams. While the products have long been used to effectively combat fuel and industrial fires, growing environmental concerns have led communities and facilities across the country to pursue PFAS-free alternatives.

The importance of this effort was highlighted during a recent tank battery fire in Midland, when PFAS-containing foam was used to help extinguish the fire. While the foam is effective at fighting fuel fires, its use can create significant environmental cleanup obligations and costs after an incident.

Midland International Air & Space Port was among the first airports in Texas to replace its PFAS-containing foam in response to recent Federal Aviation Administration requirements.

For $25,000, a company can sponsor the transition of one Midland Fire Department fire engine. Companies may contribute at any level, and multiple organizations may partner to sponsor a truck.

Companies interested in participating in the initiative can contact Christine Dooley at [email protected] or visit the PBPA website for additional information.

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