Forever Chemical Giants Knew of Toxins for Decades, Covered Up Risks

Major manufacturers produced PFAS chemicals found in consumer goods despite evidence the chemicals were dangerous and persist in the environment.
Internal documents show DuPont, 3M, and others suppressed research on health effects like cancer, birth defects, and hormonal issues to protect profits.
The companies failed to disclose risks to regulators, employees, and the public for over 50 years while PFAS seeped into water supplies, soil, and the blood of humans and animals worldwide.
Facing a barrage of lawsuits, three companies agreed to pay $1.19 billion to monitor and clean up PFAS in U.S. drinking water, though total liability may reach $10 billion or more.
The findings reveal a pattern of deception and regulatory failure surrounding synthetic chemicals in wide commercial use, prompting calls for reform and more stringent oversight.