Sharon Lerner, a seasoned investigative journalist with ProPublica, uncovered a disturbing story of corporate negligence. Michael Costa interviewed Lerner on The Daily Show, where she detailed how 3M, a major American corporation, ignored and suppressed evidence about the risks of PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These chemicals persist in the environment and human body, raising significant health concerns.
PFAS, The Forever Chemicals
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals found in various products, from non-stick cookware to water-resistant fabrics. Their molecular structure makes them incredibly durable, leading to their persistence in the environment and human blood. Despite their useful properties, PFAS have been linked to several health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and developmental problems in children.
Whistleblower Revelation
An internal whistleblower at 3M came forward, revealing that the company had suppressed findings of PFAS contamination in blood samples. This whistleblower questioned the accuracy of the data that 3M had reported, suggesting that the company had been aware of the contamination risks since the 1970s. However, it was not until decades later that 3M disclosed this information to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
An Investigation
Lerner’s investigation took over a year to complete, highlighting the significant effort required to uncover the truth. Her research involved examining internal documents, interviewing key individuals, and corroborating evidence from various sources. The detailed and extensive nature of this investigation underscores the complexity and depth of the issues surrounding PFAS contamination.
Health Risks
The health implications of PFAS are severe. Studies have linked these chemicals to various illnesses, including:
- Cancer: PFAS exposure has been associated with kidney and testicular cancers.
- Liver Damage: These chemicals can cause liver toxicity, potentially leading to chronic liver disease.
- Developmental Problems: PFAS exposure in children can result in developmental delays, affecting learning and behavior.
Environmental Impact
The persistence of PFAS in the environment means that they accumulate over time, contaminating water supplies, soil, and wildlife. This widespread contamination poses long-term risks to ecosystems and human health, making it a critical issue that requires immediate attention and remediation efforts.
Corporate Irresponsibility
Lerner’s investigation paints a troubling picture of corporate negligence. Despite knowing the risks, 3M continued producing and selling PFAS without adequately disclosing the dangers or taking steps to mitigate their impact. This behavior raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of corporations and the need for stricter regulatory oversight to protect public health and the environment.
Sharon Lerner’s investigation into 3M’s handling of PFAS chemicals reveals a shocking narrative of corporate negligence and environmental harm. The persistence of these chemicals in the environment and their associated health risks underscore the urgent need for action. Companies must be held accountable for their actions, and stricter regulations must be enforced to prevent similar issues in the future.
“This is environmental crime.” – Michael Costa, The Daily Show
At Home Protections
To address PFAS contamination in water, reverse osmosis filtration systems can be effective. These systems remove a wide range of contaminants, including PFAS, providing cleaner and safer drinking water. Additionally, whole-home water conditioners can help reduce the presence of PFAS in household water supplies, offering an extra layer of protection for families concerned about chemical exposure.
Source: The Daily Show on Youtube