Landfills Leak ‘Forever Chemicals’ Into Surrounding Communities

New Study Reveals Landfills Are A Major Cause of Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals,’ or PFAS, Going Into the Air

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK (July 19, 2024) – A new study revealed that much of the garbage dumped into landfills is releasing dangerous ‘forever chemicals’ into the air and nearby communities.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, have been detected in a number of landfills. The quantities of these chemicals released in gas form are often comparable to or greater than those released in liquid form.

These chemicals are linked to cancer, immune disorders, and other ailments. It was estimated that roughly 95 out of 200 landfills identified in the study contained PFAS.

Many scientists remain worried that the constant release of noxious fumes from these landfills could pose a health concern for communities.

Liability For Illnesses Caused By Forever Chemicals

Forever chemicals represent a serious health hazard for the individuals and communities exposed to them. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, “a number of studies have linked PFAS to cancers, high cholesterol, thyroid disease, liver damage, asthma, allergies, and reduced vaccine response in children. PFAS have also been linked with decreased fertility, newborn deaths, low birthweight, birth defects, and delayed development.” There are a number of different ways that a person can be exposed to forever chemicals.

• Drinking Water: PFAS can contaminate groundwater and surface water. This can lead to exposure through drinking water.
• Food: PFAS can enter the food chain through contaminated ground soil.
• Household Products: Many everyday items can be contaminated with PFAS. This is especially true for non-stick cookware and water-repellent fabrics.
• Personal Care Products: Certain cosmetics, shampoos, and lotions may contain PFAS.

All companies have a legal obligation to protect consumers from PFAS and other hazardous chemicals. This includes making sure that PFAS and other toxic chemicals are properly stored. When toxic chemicals are not properly stored, they can easily leach into groundwater or the air. The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) requires that hazardous waste sites be properly contained and cleaned up. It is important that certain steps are taken after being exposed to PFAS.

• Medical records related to any illnesses should be preserved.
• It should be determined if the PFAS are linked to any illnesses a person develops.
• The source of the PFAS should be determined.
• An experienced toxic tort attorney should be contacted.

It can be hard to know where to begin after being diagnosed with an illness linked to PFAS. In many cases, victims may not even realize that they are ill until many years after being exposed. Sadly, though, companies will often do everything in their power to deny responsibility if they expose the public to PFAS. This is why it is so important for victims to seek legal advice as early as possible. A toxic tort attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.

Investigating Illnesses Caused by Forever Chemicals

We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C., were deeply concerned to hear about this new study. It is our sincere hope that landfills will take additional measures to ensure that they are properly storing PFAS and other hazardous chemicals. There needs to be a thorough investigation into the extent of the hazards that landfills pose to local communities.

Have you or someone that you care about been harmed by PFAS? You may have legal recourse. Our team of toxic tort attorneys is here for you. We care deeply that people are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.