3M Announces Progress on PFAS Initiatives and Actions

Company launches clearinghouse of PFAS research and shares analytical samples

3M announced its latest actions as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to research and share information related to per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These actions advance the five initiatives and actions 3M announced in September 2019, building on the company’s longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship. Most prominently, 3M has launched a research clearinghouse webpage and is releasing previously unavailable PFAS reference standards. These mark an important step in advancing the collective scientific knowledge around PFAS.

The clearinghouse compiles published research 3M has conducted around PFAS testing, measurement and remediation best practices to facilitate access to information for communities and officials around the country. In addition, industry-leading PFAS reference standards will be made available for free to government officials, researchers and academic institutions. There are many different types of PFAS, and many reference standards for these compounds are not commercially available. 3M’s samples will make it easier to reliably study and test for PFAS materials—decreasing costs and expediting timelines for researchers.

“I am proud of the work we have done to engage with stakeholders and positively contribute toward the science of PFAS,” said Denise Rutherford, senior vice president, 3M Corporate Affairs. “We believe that current and future progress resulting from these actions can help facilitate a more inclusive, science-based discussion around PFAS and the critical role they play in so many modern applications.”

3M has also made progress on its other previously announced initiatives, including a commitment to ongoing remediation, coordinating research into PFAS, supporting nationwide science-based regulation, and ensuring appropriate disposal of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).

The company is in the process of setting up an AFFF Stewardship pilot program that will support the proper disposal of the company’s legacy AFFF product that its customers may still store. 3M also implemented its latest granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment system in Decatur, Alabama. Finally, 3M remains engaged in an effort to identify an established and independent scientific body to review the existing science on PFAS and develop an agenda for further research. While that effort is ongoing, 3M continues to collaborate with leading universities and government agencies like National Fermilab, California Institute of Technology and the University of Minnesota to advance the science of PFAS.

“The progress we’ve made on fulfilling our commitments is a positive step, and we will continue to identify new ways to share best practices and information about PFAS,” said Rutherford.

For more information about 3M’s ongoing efforts related to PFAS, visit www.3M.com/PFAS

About 3M At 3M, we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily. With $32 billion in sales, our 96,000 employees connect with customers all around the world. Learn more about 3M’s creative solutions to the world’s problems at www.3M.com or on Twitter @3M or @3MNews.

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Fanna Haile-Selassie, [e-mail] 651-736-0876