Georgia County Targets Chemical and Carpet Manufacturers for PFAS Cleanup
Catoosa County, Georgia, filed a seven-count civil action against major chemical and carpet manufacturers on January 21, 2025, seeking compensation for toxic PFAS contamination at its county landfill. County Attorney Chad Young estimates cleanup costs could exceed $100 million for contamination that occurred between 1979 and 2004. The lawsuit, filed in Gwinnett County State Court, names eight defendants, including 3M, DuPont, and major carpet manufacturers, alleging violations of the Georgia Water Quality Control Act through the disposal of toxic chemicals known as PFAS.
5 Key Points
- The lawsuit targets chemical makers 3M, DuPont, and Daikin alongside carpet manufacturers Shaw Industries, Mohawk Industries, and Aladdin Manufacturing Corporation.
- EPA studies link the disposed chemicals to cancer, organ failure, and low birth weight.
- The contaminated landfill operated from 1979 to 2004, accepting toxic byproducts from manufacturing.
- Contamination affects groundwater, surface water, and air quality through toxic rain.
- County officials seek collaborative solutions while ensuring manufacturers pay cleanup costs.
Environmental Impact and Public Health Concerns
The lawsuit alleges widespread contamination from PFAS chemicals, known as “forever chemicals,” which the EPA links to cancer, organ failure, and low birth weight. These toxic substances entered the Catoosa County landfill through manufacturing byproducts, including sludge, liquid waste, and solid waste from carpet production. The chemicals now migrate through surface water, leachate, and groundwater systems. County officials report the contamination extends beyond water resources, with landfill gas emissions releasing toxins into the air and contributing to contaminated rainfall in the region.
Corporate Accountability and Historical Operations
The complaint targets manufacturers who produced PFAS chemicals for widespread commercial use between 1979 and 2004. Companies like 3M, DuPont, and Daikin created these substances for products, including Scotchgard, Stainmaster, and Teflon. The lawsuit alleges these companies knew about the environmental dangers but concealed them throughout the landfill’s operational period. Carpet manufacturers Shaw Industries, Mohawk Industries, and Aladdin Manufacturing Corporation allegedly disposed of toxic manufacturing byproducts at the site during these 25 years.
County Response and Financial Impact
Catoosa County Attorney Chad Young emphasized the dual focus of protecting public health and taxpayer interests. “We want to protect the public’s health and taxpayers from the burden of containing and properly disposing of these toxic chemicals, which could cost $100 million or more,” Young stated. Despite the legal action, county officials express optimism for cooperation with North Georgia’s carpet manufacturing industry. Young noted, “Our community has enjoyed a long and beneficial relationship with North Georgia carpet manufacturers, and we hope that we can all agree on a timely solution that safeguards our health, property, water, soil, and air.”
FAQ
Q: Can I file a lawsuit if I was exposed to PFAS or other forever chemicals?
A: If you or a loved one suffered health issues due to exposure to PFAS or other forever chemicals, you may be eligible for legal action. Contact our legal experts to learn about your rights and start a free, confidential case review.
Q: Which companies are named in the Catoosa County lawsuit?
A: The lawsuit names Shaw Industries, Shaw Industries Group, Aladdin Manufacturing Corporation, Mohawk Industries, Mohawk Carpet, 3M Company, EIDP (formerly DuPont), and Daikin America.
Q: What are PFAS or “forever chemicals”?
A: PFAS are toxic chemicals used in products like Scotchgard, Stainmaster, and Teflon. The EPA links these substances to cancer, organ failure, and low birth weight.
Q: How long did the Catoosa County landfill operate?
A: The landfill operated from 1979 to 2004, accepting toxic byproducts from chemical and carpet manufacturing operations.
Q: What environmental systems are affected by the contamination?
A: The contamination affects surface water, groundwater, and air quality through leachate, landfill gas emissions, and toxic rain.
Q: How much could the cleanup cost?
A: Catoosa County Attorney Chad Young estimates cleanup costs could exceed $100 million.
Q: Where was the lawsuit filed?
A: The seven-count civil action was filed in the Gwinnett County, Georgia State Court.
Citations
WTVC (January 21, 2025). Catoosa County sues 7 companies over toxic landfill contamination. MSN. https://www.msn.com/en-us/public-safety-and-emergencies/health-and-safety-alerts/catoosa-county-sues-7-companies-over-toxic-landfill-contamination/ar-AA1xBAdw
