3M provides perspective on PFOS Zwijndrecht
3M understands that there are many questions about the PFOS situation in Zwijndrecht. We take our responsibility to our employees, customers and the communities in which we operate very seriously. We stopped producing PFOS in Zwijndrecht in 2002 and are continuously investing in ways to produce even more responsibly and to remedy the soil and groundwater.
3M has been part of the Zwijndrecht community for 50 years. During that period we have always worked closely with local and regional authorities, OVAM and local NGOs. We have also spoken with these parties in recent weeks and will continue these discussions. On June 29, we will participate in the hearing of the Environment Committee in the Flemish Parliament.
As a responsible manufacturer, 3M complies with applicable regulations. 3M regularly conducts soil investigations in accordance with Flemish soil legislation and under the supervision of OVAM. In 2006, an independent and accredited soil remediation expert carried out a descriptive soil investigation at the 3M site in Zwijndrecht. This resulted in a soil remediation project that was approved by OVAM in 2009.
In 2019, 3M commissioned an independent and accredited soil remediation expert to update the descriptive soil investigation at the request of OVAM, taking into account the current scientific insights about PFAS. This ongoing investigation also takes into account the environment outside the 3M site. If the results of this descriptive soil investigation require additional remedial measures, OVAM will determine the next steps.
The agreement with Lantis only relates to the joint remediation efforts of 3M and Lantis during the Oosterweel operations. We will therefore fulfill further remedial responsibilities as determined by OVAM.
We have already had an initial constructive and open discussion with PFAS client Karl Vrancken. Local and international 3M executives were present. We will continue to work closely with Mr. Vrancken and all relevant authorities and will assist where we can.
Studies of 3M employees – also in Zwijndrecht – who generally have a higher exposure to these materials than the general population, show no negative health effects as a result of exposure to PFOS.
Our people in Zwijndrecht work meticulously every day according to the guidelines associated with an advanced technological site.
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