Sydney
Australia has filed a landmark lawsuit against U.S. chemical company 3M, seeking over $1.4 billion in damages for widespread contamination linked to PFAS “forever chemicals.” The government alleges that 3M supplied PFAS-based firefighting foam used at 28 Defence sites and failed to fully disclose environmental risks. Authorities say cleanup costs have already exceeded A$1 billion, including soil remediation and water treatment. PFAS chemicals are highly persistent in the environment and have been associated with serious health risks, including cancer and liver damage. 3M has denied liability, stating it ceased PFAS sales in Australia decades ago and will defend the case.