How 3M Concealed Decades of Evidence on Harmful Forever Chemicals

A ProPublica investigation reveals how the dangers of PFAS and PFOS — synthetic chemicals known as 'forever chemicals' — were deliberately kept from the public for decades. These compounds, widely used in industrial and consumer products, persist in the environment and human bodies without breaking down. 3M, a major manufacturer of these chemicals, is central to the story of suppressed internal research showing serious health and environmental risks. The report highlights how corporate secrecy delayed regulatory action and left communities exposed to contamination. The findings raise significant questions about accountability for one of the most widespread chemical pollution crises in history.