PFAS Contamination: Trial Begins Against Chemical Giant 3M in Belgium - 1,400 Belgians sue 3M over decades of PFAS chemical exposure risks

Around 1,400 Belgian residents are taking legal action against US chemical giant 3M. They claim long-term exposure to harmful PFAS chemicals from a plant near Antwerp has put their health at risk. The group is now seeking millions in compensation.

The lawsuit centres on a 3M facility in Zwijndrecht, where so-called 'forever chemicals' have allegedly contaminated the surrounding area for decades. These synthetic substances do not break down naturally and can build up in the environment and human bodies over time.

The claimants are demanding €20,000 each in provisional damages, bringing the total to nearly €30 million. Their legal team argues that 3M failed to prevent or address the spread of PFAS, which have been linked to serious health problems. These include liver damage, weakened immune systems, lower vaccine effectiveness, fertility issues, and a higher risk of certain cancers.

In 2022, 3M reached a €571 million settlement with the Flemish government to fund cleanup efforts and soil remediation near the same plant. Despite this agreement, the new lawsuit claims ongoing harm to local residents. Meanwhile, a separate criminal investigation into 3M's actions remains active, though no formal charges have yet been brought.

Belgium is not alone in pursuing legal action over PFAS pollution. At least two other European countries—Italy and France—have launched similar complaints or investigations. In October 2023, affected individuals from multiple nations sought a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to highlight the health consequences of PFAS exposure. The Commission itself is working on a broad ban of these chemicals, but the proposal has faced delays, with a draft not expected for several more months.

The case against 3M adds to growing legal pressure on companies linked to PFAS contamination across Europe. If successful, the lawsuit could set a precedent for further claims by residents affected by long-term chemical exposure. The outcome may also influence ongoing regulatory efforts to restrict or ban these persistent pollutants.