3M knew for more than 50 years that its products could harm humans, Australian government alleges in court documents
Summary
The Australian government says that 3M knew for over 50 years that its firefighting products containing PFAS chemicals could harm people, animals, and the environment. Australia is suing 3M and its local branch for more than $2 billion over pollution caused by these chemicals at 28 defense bases.Key Facts
- 3M’s firefighting foam contains PFAS, a group of chemicals that do not break down easily and can stay in water, soil, and living bodies for a long time.
- Australian lawyers claim 3M knew by 1973 that these products could be toxic and cause health issues like kidney problems, fertility effects, and low birth weight in babies.
- PFAS chemicals were banned in Australia last year because of their environmental and health risks.
- The government is suing 3M and 3M Australia for $2 billion over contamination at 28 Australian defense bases.
- 3M supplied Australia with firefighting foam at a reduced price beginning in 1972.
- Internal 3M documents from the 1980s showed concern about PFAS effects, such as birth defects in rats, leading to restrictions on women working at some plants.
- Defence stopped buying 3M’s PFAS foam in 2003 and phased out the chemicals starting in 2004.
- Investigations show PFAS chemicals have polluted groundwater near military bases across Australia.
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