Saint-Gobain knew Merrimack plant released toxic PFAS but shifted operations there anyway

By EHN Staff | Environmental Health News | May 29, 2025

Read the full article by EHN Staff (Environmental Health News)

"A French manufacturer moved hazardous operations to New Hampshire despite knowing its Teflon plant was emitting large amounts of toxic chemicals linked to serious health problems.

Jackie Harris and Rick Ganley report for New Hampshire Public Radio.

In short:

Saint-Gobain became aware in the early 2000s that its Teflon coating operations emitted large amounts of PFOA, a toxic PFAS chemical, but consolidated those operations in Merrimack rather than install emission controls.
Studies and investigations revealed that more than half of the PFOA used at such sites escaped into the environment, with emissions settling into nearby soil and water, raising health risks for local residents.
Despite mounting health concerns and community complaints, Saint-Gobain and other chemical companies have yet to publicly accept responsibility for related illnesses, although citizen activism has pushed for and achieved new restrictions on PFAS."