Early Discoveries at 3M
In 1997, Kris Hansen, a chemist at 3M Corporation, embarked on an unexpected journey that would unveil alarming truths about chemical contamination. Known for inventing Scotch Tape and Post-it notes, 3M produced a variety of products containing fluorochemicals. These man-made compounds, found in products like Scotchgard and Scotchban, played a crucial role in protecting fabrics and food packaging from stains and moisture. They were also used in firefighting foams to extinguish jet-fuel fires.
The PFOS Revelation
Hansen’s boss, Jim Johnson, tasked her with testing human blood for chemical contaminants, specifically PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), a fluorochemical found in many 3M products. Initial tests revealed an unexpected presence of PFOS in blood samples from the general population, which should have been free of such contaminants. Hansen and her team conducted rigorous testing, confirming that PFOS was widespread in human blood.
Corporate Response and Historical Context
Johnson’s cryptic response to Hansen’s findings, “This changes everything,” hinted at deeper issues. Hansen later discovered that 3M had conducted toxicological studies on PFOS decades earlier. These studies revealed the chemical’s harmful effects, including liver damage and death in animals at relatively low doses. Despite this, 3M increased its production of PFOS over the years.
Hansen’s Persistence
Hansen faced increasing scrutiny from her superiors. They questioned her methods and suggested that her equipment was contaminated. Despite these challenges, she persisted, using multiple mass spectrometers and testing hundreds of blood samples, all of which contained PFOS.
Her determination led her to uncover the extent of PFOS contamination. She found the chemical in various animals and confirmed that it had spread through the food chain. Historical blood samples from the early decades of PFOS production showed contamination, but pre-PFOS samples were clean, establishing a timeline for the chemical’s introduction into human blood.
Internal Company Secrets
Hansen learned that 3M had been aware of the dangers of PFOS for years. A 1981 article written by 3M scientists described a method for measuring fluorine in blood, indicating that the company had been testing for fluorochemicals decades before Hansen’s research. This revelation left Hansen feeling betrayed by her colleagues and superiors.
Presentation to 3M Executives
In early 1999, Hansen presented her findings to 3M’s CEO, Livio D. DeSimone, and other executives. Instead of addressing the health implications, they interrogated her about her research motives and methods. Hansen’s experience highlighted the company’s reluctance to confront the dangers of PFOS, focusing instead on protecting its reputation and financial interests.
EPA Involvement and Corporate Accountability
Although Hansen was sidelined, her research findings reached the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Under federal law, companies must report evidence indicating that their products pose substantial risks to health or the environment. 3M eventually notified the EPA about PFOS contamination, but downplayed its health risks.
By 2000, under pressure from the EPA, 3M decided to discontinue its entire portfolio of PFOS-related chemicals. However, the company continued to face scrutiny for its handling of the issue. In subsequent years, scientific studies linked PFOS to various health problems, including immune system issues, developmental delays, and increased risk of cancer.
Personal and Professional Impact
Hansen’s persistence came at a personal and professional cost. She faced ostracism from colleagues and felt marginalized within the company. Despite her significant contributions to uncovering the truth about PFOS, she experienced profound frustration and disillusionment with 3M.
After leaving the environmental lab, Hansen avoided discussing fluorochemicals for nearly two decades. When she finally confronted the extensive harm caused by PFOS, she felt a mix of relief that independent scientists were studying the issue and anger at the company and herself for perpetuating the narrative that PFOS was harmless.
The Long-Term Consequences of PFOS
The widespread contamination of PFOS has had significant environmental and health impacts. Studies have shown that PFOS accumulates in the body, causing various health problems. Despite regulatory actions to limit PFOS exposure, many other fluorochemicals continue to be used, posing ongoing risks.
Kris Hansen’s journey at 3M underscores the complexities of corporate secrecy and accountability. Her research played a pivotal role in exposing the dangers of PFOS, yet the full impact of these chemicals continues to unfold. Hansen’s story highlights the need for transparency and rigorous scientific investigation to protect public health and the environment from harmful industrial chemicals.
Filter Your Water Now!
In addressing the contamination of water supplies with PFOS and other harmful chemicals, reverse osmosis filtration and whole-home water conditioners offer effective solutions. Reverse osmosis systems can remove contaminants, including PFOS, by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, leaving harmful substances behind. Whole-home water conditioners improve overall water quality, ensuring safer consumption and usage. Implementing these technologies can significantly reduce exposure to PFOS and other pollutants, promoting healthier living environments.
Source: The New Yorker