Cities across the country are dealing with the effects of “forever chemicals” in their air and water. A small city in upstate New York, Cohoes, learned that more than two million pounds of material containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl (collectively known as PFAS) had been shipped to an incinerator in their city. Residents have complained of health problems, and there are concerns about air pollution and water contamination. This problem is not isolated and should be of major concern to cities across the country.
Forever Chemicals
PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, can persist for more than decades. They can also accumulate within the human body. These chemicals come from over 60 military sites and are mostly wastewater from firefighting foam. These chemicals have been associated with cancer and have been found in water and air pollution. Residents of Cohoes have noted harsh smells, black soot, and sticky residue on their vehicles.
PFAS chemicals were invented in the 1930s and are used in a number of products, including nonstick cookware and waterproof jackets. These chemicals have been found to contaminate drinking water in several states. This is especially true near factories that use the chemicals and near military sites that use the PFAS-containing firefighting foam. PFAS chemicals are dangerous and have been linked to several types of cancer and other health problems such as high cholesterol.
Water contamination has been a widespread problem with PFAS across the country. Now it is believed that the chemicals may also be associated with air pollution. Experts worry that the incineration of PFAS can lead to toxins being released in the air.
Lawsuits
New York state is currently suing manufacturers of PFAS-containing foam, citing widespread contamination of the state’s drinking water. In 2018, 3M settled a lawsuit with the state of Minnesota, paying the state $850 million. The suit alleged the company’s production of PFAS contaminated the state’s drinking water and the environment. 3M denied any danger associated with PFAS but discontinued the manufacturing of two types of chemicals.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
If you’ve been injured by contaminated air or water, you should have your case evaluated by an experienced attorney. Gregg Goldfarb has been helping the injured for over 20 years. Contact us online or call us at 305-374-7000 to schedule a free consultation.