New York Files Landmark Lawsuit Over 'Forever Chemicals'
New York has filed a lawsuit against 3M, DuPont, and several other chemical manufacturers, accusing them of causing a public nuisance by selling toxic 'forever chemicals' known as Pfas. The lawsuit, announced by New York Attorney General Letitia James on Thursday, alleges that these companies knowingly hid the environmental and health risks of Pfas from consumers for decades, even as they began phasing out some of the chemicals.
Defendants Named in the Suit
In addition to 3M and DuPont, the lawsuit names Chemours, Corteva, and EIDP as defendants. These companies were formerly part of DuPont before being spun off. The case was filed in a state court in Albany, New York's capital.
Decades of Deception Alleged
According to the attorney general's office, the companies were aware of the dangers posed by Pfas as early as the 1970s but continued to market them for use in a wide range of consumer products, including non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. 'For decades, these companies knew that Pfas were toxic and harmful to the environment, yet they chose to hide that information from the public,' James said in a statement. 'They put profits over people and our planet, and now they must be held accountable.'
Health and Environmental Impact
Pfas, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as 'forever chemicals' because they do not break down in the environment. They have been linked to a range of health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system disorders. The lawsuit seeks to recover costs for cleaning up contamination and to prevent future harm. New York joins a growing number of states taking legal action against Pfas manufacturers.
