Chemical Producers to Pay Billions in Settlements Over Toxic “Forever Chemicals” Pollution

Why it is important: The settlements represent a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to address the presence of hazardous chemicals in water systems across the United States.

They come in the wake of stricter regulations by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of more than 12,000 chemicals.

PFAS contamination has affected numerous drinking water systems nationwide, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noting that most Americans have some level of PFAS in their blood.

While the health effects of these chemicals are still being studied, certain levels of PFAS exposure have been linked to adverse health effects in humans and animals, including an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer.

Chemours, DuPont, and Corteva Agree to $1.19 Billion Settlement with Water Providers Nationwide

The settlement addresses allegations that the companies’ manufacturing of firefighting foams containing PFAS contributed to environmental pollution.

While the companies have denied the claims, the settlement would resolve numerous lawsuits consolidated in the federal district court for South Carolina, pending finalisation by the court.