3M agrees to pay billions to U.S. water systems for PFAS contamination, marking a significant move toward addressing environmental concerns.
Jim Salter reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- The settlement, approved by a U.S. District Court, requires 3M to compensate public water systems up to $12.5 billion by 2036 for PFAS contamination.
- PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are linked to several health risks and have been found in drinking water nationwide.
- The deal is part of broader efforts to eliminate PFAS from products and manufacturing processes, with 3M aiming to cease all PFAS production by 2025.
Key quote:
“That’s great news for American citizens who drink from that water. It’ll help rid our public drinking water systems of PFAS, and that’s the most important thing about the settlement.”
— Scott Summy, one of the lead attorneys for those suing 3M and other manufacturers
Why this matters:
Each successful lawsuit sets a precedent that can influence the outcomes of future cases, potentially leading to more companies being held accountable for PFAS contamination. This legal pressure can serve as a catalyst for broader environmental protection efforts, encouraging the development of more sustainable industrial practices.
Studies conducted up to four decades ago found health effects, including on the immune system, from PFAS chemicals, but those studies were hidden by production companies, like 3M Co.
