PFAS contamination: Michigan's biggest environmental crisis in 40 yearsĬastellanos, 24 Tigers minor leaguers exposed to harmful PFAS chemicals in past states or territories known contaminated with PFAS, including drinking water systems serving 19 million people. In a new study, citing updated federal government data, the Washington-based nonprofit Environmental Working Group identified 610 sites in 43 U.S. And state officials have identified more than 11,000 sites in Michigan where PFAS was used and contamination may be an issue.Īnd it's not just the Great Lakes State's problem. Environmental Protection Agency's lifetime health advisory guideline of 70 parts per trillion, a level above which a person consuming the water for a lifetime might expect health problems. Some 46 sites in Michigan are known to have groundwater with PFAS levels above the U.S. It has even been found in polar bears in the Arctic Circle, as the chemicals have worked their way up the food chain from fish and seals. PFAS can now be found in the blood of nearly 99% of Americans. Two of the most common and most studied PFAS compounds, known as PFOS and PFOA, have been linked to cancer conditions affecting the liver, thyroid and pancreas ulcerative colitis hormone and immune system interference high cholesterol pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, and negative effects on growth, learning and behavior in infants and children. The nonstick compounds were used for decades, from the 1950s to the 2000s, in aqueous firefighting foam, industrial processes and a host of popular consumer products: Teflon nonstick pots and pans, ScotchGard stain protectants on carpets and upholstery Gore-Tex water-resistant shoes and clothing, and more.īut the same qualities that made PFAS compounds so useful also makes them almost indestructible in the environment, giving them the ominous nickname "the forever chemicals." Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances - PFAS - is the biggest emerging contaminant problem in Michigan. Purdy's explosive resignation letter is just one of a large cache of internal 3M memos and documents obtained by the Free Press through public records law from the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. Then-Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson obtained the internal documents from the Minnesota-based company after suing 3M in 2010 over its environmental contamination in the state. The company settled the suit last year for $850 million. There are always excuses and little is accomplished." For weeks on end, I have received assurances that my samples would be analyzed soon - never to see results. "But I have continually met roadblocks, delays, and indecision. "I have worked within the system to learn more about this chemical and to make the company aware of the dangers associated with its continued use," Purdy stated in the letter, saying he was resigning effective April 6, 1999.
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