What is PFAS?

PFAS stands for “per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances,” a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used for decades in products such as nonstick cookware, stain-and-water-resistant fabrics, food packaging, firefighting foam and industrial processes. Known as “forever chemicals” because they break down extremely slowly, PFAS can build up in people and the environment and have been linked to health concerns including certain cancers, liver and thyroid problems, immune system effects and developmental issues.

Six sites added in just over two months.

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The newest addition came Aug. 6, when the state added 915 Fowler Street in Livingston County’s town of Howell, which has been used for various industrial practices since at least 1972. Before that came 42200 Joy Road in Plymouth (Wayne County) on July 28, which was historically used as a plating facility. Other additions include Jessie Oil Company Dundee in Monroe County, Jaco Plating in Jackson County, Bendix Corporation/Allied Automotive in Berrien County, and 13305 Wayne Road in Wayne County’s Livonia.

The locations represent a mixture of different sites including industrial properties and plating operations. Additionally, PFAS contamination is often found at airports, military bases, landfills, metal- plating operations, tanneries and other industrial or manufacturing sites where the chemicals were used, discharged or disposed of.

Hundreds and counting.

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy ’s PFAS dashboard currently lists 353 PFAS sites and another 40 Areas of Interest, putting nearly 400 locations on the state’s radar in those two categories alone – and the list continues to grow. Michigan’s work to identify and investigate where the “forever chemicals” are turning up appears far from over.