3M Reaches Settlement Agreement with Wolverine Worldwide
3M, a global science and innovation company, announced on March 8, 2021, that it has reached a settlement agreement with Wolverine Worldwide regarding a lawsuit over alleged contaminants in groundwater. The lawsuit was filed by 3M against Wolverine Worldwide, a footwear and clothing company, in December 2018.
The lawsuit claimed that Wolverine Worldwide contaminated the groundwater in the Rockford, Michigan area with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are harmful chemicals used in the manufacturing of consumer products such as non-stick cookware and waterproof clothing. In the settlement agreement, Wolverine Worldwide will pay $69.5 million to 3M to resolve the lawsuit, as well as any future claims related to PFAS contamination in the area.
This settlement agreement is part of 3M’s ongoing efforts to hold companies accountable for environmental contamination and promote sustainability. PFAS are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic chemicals that can remain in the environment for decades and have been linked to adverse health effects, including cancer, developmental and reproductive issues, and immune system dysfunction.
The settlement agreement with Wolverine Worldwide is one of the largest of its kind, and it demonstrates the importance of addressing environmental contamination and protecting public health and the environment. 3M has been a leading company in the development of sustainable solutions and is committed to reducing its environmental footprint.
As consumers, we can also play a role in promoting sustainability and reducing our exposure to harmful chemicals. One way to do this is by choosing products that are certified by reputable organizations such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), or the Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard. These certifications ensure that the products are made with environmentally sustainable materials and processes and meet strict standards for health and safety.
In conclusion, the settlement agreement between 3M and Wolverine Worldwide is a significant step towards addressing environmental contamination and promoting sustainability. It serves as a reminder of the importance of holding companies accountable for their actions and the impact they have on the environment and public health. As consumers, we can also make a difference by choosing products that are environmentally sustainable and safe.
