In a landmark environmental settlement, three major chemical manufacturers—Chemours, DuPont de Nemours, and Corteva—have agreed to pay $875 million to the state of New Jersey to resolve claims related to the contamination of soil, water, and public health with toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.
The settlement stems from long-standing allegations that the companies knowingly produced and released per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into the environment, despite evidence of the chemicals’ persistence and harmful effects. PFAS are a group of synthetic compounds used in products such as nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, and water-repellent fabrics. Known for their resistance to degradation, PFAS have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, liver damage, developmental disorders, and immune system impairment.
According to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, the settlement will be directed toward environmental cleanup efforts, public health monitoring, and the restoration of contaminated natural resources. “This agreement represents one of the largest environmental settlements in New Jersey history,” Platkin stated. “For decades, these companies put profits over people, and today’s resolution ensures they will be held accountable for the damage they’ve caused.”
Chemours, a spinoff of DuPont, has been at the center of numerous PFAS-related lawsuits across the country. Corteva, formerly part of DowDuPont, was also implicated in the manufacture and distribution of the chemicals. Despite not admitting wrongdoing as part of the settlement, the companies agreed to the payment in order to avoid prolonged litigation.
Residents in affected areas have reported elevated levels of PFAS in drinking water, and communities near industrial sites have expressed concern over health issues potentially tied to the exposure. The environmental toll has been significant as well, with contamination seeping into rivers, wetlands, and aquifers across the state. Experts say it may take years, if not decades, to fully remediate the affected areas.
This settlement is the latest in a series of legal actions nationwide targeting chemical companies over PFAS contamination. With mounting pressure from regulators and environmental groups, this case sets a precedent for holding polluters financially responsible for the long-term impact of their industrial practices.
