PFAS Government Remediation Lawsuit

What Are PFAS?

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemical compounds widely utilized across various industries. Companies like DuPont and 3M have historically depended on PFAS to significantly increase their revenue streams. These substances are essential in several manufacturing processes, such as those in the water treatment and textile industries.

PFAS have also become prevalent in the production of upholstery, fabric, and carpets, driving annual revenues to nearly $1 billion. Additionally, they are instrumental for producing polishes, paints, surface sprays, and lubricants, contributing an estimated $100 million annually to the economy. However, despite their economic benefit, PFAS pose substantial risks to both human health and the environment.

Where Are PFAS Used?

PFAS are integral to the manufacturing of various products, including:

• Medical devices
• Printer and copier color inks
• Hydraulic fluids in aerospace and automotive industries
• Food packaging and metal plating materials
• Coatings for non-stick cookware

Despite their utility, PFAS are labeled as carcinogenic and are linked to significant health and environmental risks. Due to the wide use of these substances, PFAS contamination frequently impacts public and private water supplies. Addressing this contamination is highly expensive, making the guidance of a West Virginia PFAS lawyer from Mountaineer Criminal Law Group invaluable for handling industry-related challenges.

 Environmental Impacts of PFAS

The use of PFAS spans decades, making them a persistent presence in various parts of the environment. A 2017 report by the Environmental Working Group revealed that PFAS contamination affected water sources across approximately 27 U.S. states, impacting an estimated 15 million residents. 

Longevity & Degradation Challenges

PFAS substances are particularly problematic because they do not easily degrade, allowing them to persist in water systems and the environment for millions of years. This enduring presence magnifies their potential to contaminate crucial resources.

 Health Risks Linked to PFAS

PFAS are classified as human carcinogens and are strongly correlated with kidney and testicular cancer. However, the list of dangers associated with PFAS exposure extends further.

Potential Health Issues:

• Thyroid dysfunction and pediatric cancer risks
• Neurological disorders and infertility
• Ulcerative colitis and autoimmune diseases
• High cholesterol levels
• Blood disorders
• Toxemia and pregnancy complications

Given their widespread presence in industries, it’s crucial to monitor and manage exposure effectively. Mountaineer Criminal Law Group and their Martinsburg criminal lawyers specialize in addressing cases linked to PFAS exposure at different administrative and judicial levels.

 How PFAS Contaminate Water Supplies

PFAS substances often enter water systems as a result of industrial waste disposal. When waste infiltrates soil, it contaminates groundwater supplies. Additionally, since PFAS are non-biodegradable, they may enter ecosystems and even food chains.

Sources of Contamination:

• Industrial Waste: Direct disposal of PFAS-laden materials into water systems.
• Fire Suppression Foams: Widely used in firefighting training academies and areas impacted by large-scale fires.
• Lubricants in Airspaces: High-use locations with air traffic often show PFAS traces.
• Military Bases: For example, water wells near the Michigan U.S. Air Force Base have been found to contain PFAS.

The Cost and Complexity of PFAS Removal

The removal of PFAS is a costly and challenging endeavor. Eliminating approximately 99.9% of PFAS from water supplies requires granular activated carbon filtration—a time-intensive and expensive process. For shorter PFAS chains, even more complex filtration methods are necessary, significantly raising costs.

Cost Implications:

• Communities must invest around $1 million to install and maintain filtration systems.
• These expenses frequently lead to legal actions pursued against responsible parties to recover costs.

For communities impacted by PFAS contamination, working with a lawyer from Mountaineer Criminal Law Group can help address these issues and seek compensation.  

How Mountaineer Criminal Law Group Can Help

At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, our experienced lawyers are committed to fighting for the rights of those impacted by PFAS contamination. Whether it’s filing lawsuits against industries or navigating complicated claims for damages, our team works tirelessly to secure fair compensation for your community. 

We also handle a range of other legal services. If you need assistance with legal issues related to PFAS contamination or any other environmental concern, don’t hesitate to contact our office for a free consultation.

For those dealing with unrelated criminal charges, our Martinsburg criminal lawyer teams are here to assist. With a deep understanding of how these issues affect both personal and community well-being, Mountaineer Criminal Law Group provides the expertise you need to move forward with confidence.

Reach out today to discuss (304) 381-3656 your legal needs and learn more about how we can help you.