3M has reached a $10.3 billion settlement with numerous of U.S. public water systems to resolve water pollution claims tied to “forever chemicals,” yet they are not admitting any liability. According to Reuters writer Clark Mindock, the company said the settlement would provide the funds over a 13-year period to cities, towns, and other public water systems to test and treat contamination of “PFAS” (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Additionally, 3M has pledged to phase out these harmful chemicals by 2025.
What are “Forever Chemicals”?
Forever chemical (or PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals widely used in various industrial and consumer products. The term “forever” stems from the fact that these chemicals are highly persistent in the environment, meaning they do not easily break down over time. PFAS have been used in products such as non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, food packaging, firefighting foam, and more. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has called PFAS an “urgent public health and environmental issue”.
What are the Potential Health Risks?
Water contamination resulting from PFAS exposure can have far-reaching consequences for human health and for the environment. These chemicals are known to bioaccumulate — instead of breaking down and leaving the body over time, they remain in the body and build up over time. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to various health issues, including liver damage, developmental problems, hormonal disruption, immune system suppression, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Additionally, there is harm to aquatic life and ecosystems.
“We have reached the largest drinking water settlement in American history, which will be used to help filter PFAS from drinking water that is served to the public. The result is that millions of Americans will have healthier lives without PFAS in their drinking water.” Scott Summy, Lead Attorney for water systems suing 3M
There have been over 4,000 lawsuits filed against 3M. One of the most notable cases against 3M unfolded in Minnesota, where the company originated. The state sued 3M in 2010, accusing the company of contaminating groundwater with PFAS from its manufacturing facilities.
Are Other Companies Putting Harmful Chemicals Into our Waters?
You betcha. Three other major chemicals companies — Chemours Co (CC.N), DuPont de Nemours Inc (DD.N) and Corteva Inc (CTVA.N) announced earlier this month that they had reached an agreement in principle for $1.19 billion to settle claims that they contaminated U.S. public water systems with PFAS.
3M still faces PFAS-related lawsuits filed by individuals with personal injury and property damage claims, as well as by U.S. states over damages to natural resources such as rivers and lakes that were not part of the settlement.
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3M reaches tentative $10.3 billion deal over US ‘forever chemicals’ claims
Image courtesy of Silvia Rita