MINNEAPOLIS, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – A landmark settlement in excess of $10 billion has been greenlit by a federal judge, resolving class-action lawsuits against 3M over the contamination of drinking water supplies with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely known as “forever chemicals.”
The settlement, initially announced last year, concludes legal disputes initiated by public water suppliers grappling with PFAS contamination nationwide. These human-made chemicals, prevalent in various products, persist in the environment and have tainted water sources, posing severe health risks.
Despite facing resistance, including objections from over 20 state attorneys general, 3M secured final approval from the U.S. District Court in Charleston, S.C., affirming the agreement’s validity.
3M pledges to allocate up to $10.3 billion over 13 years to aid public water utilities in PFAS testing, remediation, and treatment technology. This funding, scheduled to commence later this year, marks a significant step towards ameliorating the repercussions of PFAS contamination.
Moreover, 3M reiterates its commitment to cease PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025, aligning with environmental responsibility.
In a parallel development, 3M has finalized the long-awaited spinoff of its healthcare division, launching Solventum, a standalone entity. With approximately 22,000 employees, including nearly 1,200 in St. Paul, Solventum encompasses 3M’s wound and oral care products, healthcare IT, and biopharma filtration business.
Only! Minnesota citizens should own 3M.