In a significant development, 3M, the Minnesota-based chemical conglomerate, has consented to a staggering settlement worth up to $450 million with New Jersey regarding contamination of the state's groundwater by “forever chemicals,” primarily PFAS compounds. These substances, widely recognized for their substantial environmental persistence, have been linked to numerous health issues, including increased cancer risks and developmental disorders. The contamination stems from 3M's operations at the Chambers Works facility in Deepwater, New Jersey, historically owned by DuPont.
The lawsuit, initiated in 2019, argued that the presence of PFAS at the facility had severely impacted drinking water quality. As part of the agreement, 3M will distribute funds over the next 25 years for damages, cleanup efforts, and the enhancement of drinking water treatment systems. However, DuPont and its spinoff Chemours, who also played a role in the contamination, will not be included in this settlement and are expected to face trial in the forthcoming phases of the case.
The lawsuit, initiated in 2019, argued that the presence of PFAS at the facility had severely impacted drinking water quality. As part of the agreement, 3M will distribute funds over the next 25 years for damages, cleanup efforts, and the enhancement of drinking water treatment systems. However, DuPont and its spinoff Chemours, who also played a role in the contamination, will not be included in this settlement and are expected to face trial in the forthcoming phases of the case.
