3M Settles ‘Forever Chemicals’ Water Pollution Lawsuit for $10B

3M, the chemicals manufacturer, has reached a $10.3 billion settlement with U.S. public water suppliers over the detection of PFAs, also known as “forever chemicals,” in their drinking water. This settlement will provide funding for public water suppliers nationwide that have detected PFAs in drinking water, as well as for future detection.

PFAs, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are called “forever chemicals” because they last a long time in the environment. These chemicals have been associated with serious health conditions, including cancer and reduced birth weight. PFAs are commonly used in consumer products such as nonstick frying pans, water-repellent sports gear, and stain-resistant rugs.

Scott Summy, one of the lead attorneys in the lawsuit against 3M and other manufacturers, stated that PFAS is the biggest chemical threat to America’s collective public drinking water. He also mentioned that this settlement is the largest drinking water settlement in American history and will be used to help filter PFAS from drinking water, benefiting millions of Americans.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed strict limits on two common types of PFAs, PFOA and PFOS, and intends to regulate four others. Water providers will be responsible for monitoring their systems for these chemicals.

3M’s chairman and CEO, Mike Roman, called this agreement an important step forward for the company. He emphasized 3M’s prior actions, including exiting PFOA and PFOS manufacturing over 20 years ago, investing in water filtration technology, and committing to exit all PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025.

The settlement agreement is subject to court approval. If it is not approved or certain agreed terms are not fulfilled, 3M is prepared to continue defending itself in the litigation.

This article was written exclusively for Business Today.