Read the full article by Amanda Oglesby (Asbury Park Press)

“A group of pollutants known as ‘forever chemicals’ are so widespread in New Jersey’s environment that a group of local water suppliers are suing companies that manufacture and use large amounts of the chemicals in their products.

Water suppliers in Brick, Toms River, Wall and other communities across the state say a group of chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have contaminated their drinking water supplies.

PFAS are used in high concentrations in firefighting foam, which then leaches into groundwater and then the drinking water supply.

Studies have shown that even in minuscule amounts, PFAS can cause health impacts. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the chemicals are known to increase risks for certain types of cancer, raise blood pressure and decrease fertility.

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The PFAS legal fight

Water departments in Wall and Brick, among others in New Jersey, are seeking damages from chemical companies that manufacturer PFAS. Defendants named in the multidistrict lawsuit include 3M, BASF, Bayer, Dupont, Honeywell International, the Middlesex County Fire Marshal, Tyco Fire Products, as well as numerous manufacturers of the chemicals and firefighting foam and equipment.

On its website, 3M said PFAS-based products are crucial for making cars and airplanes, where the chemicals protect fuel lines, electronics and equipment; are used in solar panels, windmills and fuel cells; and are used in medical devices and common prescription medicines.

The company said it would stop manufacturing PFAS by the end of 2025 and would switch to alternatives in its products where available. However, the company noted that some continued, limited use of PFAS might still be necessary in some circumstances.

Earlier this year, the company agreed to pay more than $10 billion in a settlement over the water contamination from firefighting foam and other PFAS-containing products, according to The Associated Press. On its website, 3M said that PFAS’ net sales are valued at around $1.3 billion, or 4% of the company’s annual revenue.” …