PFAS Government Remediation Lawsuit

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, are a group of man-made chemicals used across many industries. Companies like DuPont and 3M have seen significant revenue increases due to their use. PFAS are vital in the manufacturing processes for water-resistant textiles, contributing to an industry worth approximately $1 billion annually through its use in upholstery, fabrics, and carpets. They are also integral to products like polishes, paints, sprays for coated surfaces, and lubricants, adding another $100 million in yearly revenue. Unfortunately, these substances pose serious risks to both human health and the environment.

Common Uses of PFAS

PFAS are critical ingredients in manufacturing a wide range of products, including:

• Medical devices
• Ink for printers and copiers
• Hydraulic fluids for the aerospace and automotive sectors
• Food packaging and metal plating materials
• Coatings for non-stick cookware

PFAS are recognized as carcinogenic, which is why the Mountaineer Criminal Law Group is investigating complaints against government bodies for their alleged use in various industries. These substances are frequently found in both private and public water supplies due to their widespread use. The process of remediating PFAS contamination is extremely expensive. A qualified Waynesburg criminal lawyer can help communities in Greene County address these significant industrial challenges.

Environmental Impact

PFAS substances have been used for many decades, leading to their presence in various environmental locations. A June 2017 report from The Environmental Working Group revealed significant water contamination in about 27 states, affecting an estimated fifteen million Americans. The primary issue with these “forever chemicals” is that they do not break down easily through natural degradation processes. As a result, they persist in the environment and can contaminate water bodies for potentially millions of years.

Impact on Health

PFAS have been identified as human carcinogens and are strongly linked to serious diseases such as kidney and testicular cancer. Exposure to PFAS substances has also been associated with several other health problems:

• Thyroid malfunction and cancer in children
• Mental dysfunction and infertility
• Ulcerative colitis
• Blood disorders
• Autoimmune diseases
• High cholesterol levels
• Toxemia and other pregnancy complications

If you or a loved one are experiencing health issues after exposure, consulting with a Waynesburg DUI attorney who also handles such environmental cases can provide clarity on your legal options.

How PFAS Substances Enter Water Supplies

One of the main ways PFAS are released into the water is through industrial waste. When this waste material seeps into the ground, it contaminates the groundwater supply. Because these substances are non-biodegradable, they can also enter the food chain, posing a wider threat to ecosystems.

Fire training academies also contribute to contamination by using PFAS in fire suppressant foams. As a result, areas that have experienced large fires are likely to have high concentrations of PFAS. Furthermore, these chemicals are used as lubricants in aerospace applications. This is why water wells near military installations, like the Michigan US Air Force Base, have been found to contain PFAS.

The Challenge of PFAS Removal

Removing PFAS from water is a complex and costly endeavor. To eliminate approximately 99.9% of PFAS and PFOS, a process known as granular activated carbon filtration is required. For shorter-chain PFAS compounds, even more rigorous and complicated filtration methods are necessary, which can be significantly more expensive. Communities often need to install specialized equipment to carry out this filtration, with costs potentially reaching $1 million or more. A Waynesburg criminal lawyer can be appointed to challenge government entities and recover the necessary funds for the community’s cleanup process.

Mountaineer Criminal Law Group has experienced Waynesburg criminal lawyers ready to fight on behalf of their clients to secure the compensation they deserve. Call us (304) 381-3656 for a free consultation.

We also handle DUI cases in Waynesburg and throughout Greene County. If you need assistance with such a matter, consult with our Waynesburg DUI attorney to navigate your situation effectively.