US conglomerate 3M to stop producing hazardous PFAS by end of 2025

By Ovunc Kutlu

ISTANBUL (AA) - 3M announced Tuesday that it would stop manufacturing the hazardous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) and discontinue its use across its product portfolio by the end of 2025.

The decision is a result of evolving external landscape, increasing regulations on eliminating PFAS in the environment and changing stakeholder expectations, the US conglomerate said in a statement.

"This is a moment that demands the kind of innovation 3M is known for," said chairman and chief executive officer Mike Roman. "While PFAS can be safely made and used, we also see an opportunity to lead in a rapidly evolving external regulatory and business landscape to make the greatest impact for those we serve.”

The company, which manufactures everyday products like Post-It notes and Scotch tape, said current annual net sales of manufactured PFAS are approximately $1.3 billion, while it expects to incur related total pre-tax charges of approximately $1.3 billion to $2.3 billion.

PFAS are long-lasting chemicals whose components break down very slowly over time. They are found in water, air, fish and soil at locations across the globe, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Many PFAS are found in the blood of people and animals. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the EPA.