New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed a new lawsuit targeting 21 companies that reportedly continue producing toxic PFAS chemicals despite knowing the health risks.
“Given the fact that these companies have known for decades, exactly how dangerous these chemicals are, it is simply inexcusable for them to continue to place profits over people,” Torrez said during a news conference.
3M and Dupont are the most notable companies named in the lawsuit, which demands the companies pay for PFAS cleanup projects in New Mexico as well as damages to New Mexicans. “Whether you live work or play in New Mexico, the point is, is that we’re taking bold action, and we’ll continue to do that to hold polluters accountable,” New Mexico Environment Secretary James Kenney said.
Polyfluoroalkyl substances – aka PFAS – were first developed in the 1940s following World War II. They are man-made compounds used in hundreds of everyday products. The compounds repel oil/grease and water while also being heat-resistant. The chemicals are used in products like non-stick pans, fast food containers, cosmetics, paint, and firefighting foam among many others.
What’s dangerous is PFAS chemicals exist in a toxic state forever. There are more than 12,000 known PFAS compounds, and they do not break down into other compounds naturally. The compounds have been found in soil samples, groundwater supplies, and according to a CDC study, in the blood of at least 97% of Americans. “It literally is surrounding us almost on a daily basis,” Torrez said.
PFAS attracted the attention of the AG’s office in recent years because the chemicals are linked to dozens of medical conditions in almost every part of the body. The toxins are also connected to several types of cancer.
“With each new study done by outside experts or government officials, the level of toxicity the level of potential harm associated with this family of chemicals has only grown more dire in terms of the potential impact to human health,” Torrez said. “This is why we felt it was necessary to initiate an action.”
There are multiple efforts underway to reduce exposure to PFAS chemicals. According to KOB 4, researchers at Sandia National Labs are developing a specialized filter that can reportedly remove 99% of PFAS chemicals from water. The technology, according to researchers, can be used in large-scale operations as well as household settings. The research team recently received a $100,000 grant to continue their work, per KOB 4.
Also, researchers at Northwestern University recently discovered at least two PFAS chemicals can be broken apart using a low-heat technique. Torrez added that lawsuits targeting PFAS groundwater contamination near Canon and Holloman Air Force Bases are ongoing.