Target: Michael F. Roman, CEO of 3M
Goal: Urge 3M to contribute towards cleanup of their reported damage to vital waterways.
The presence of manmade chemicals in waterways is an issue that has been gaining steam over the years. These compounds leech from factories and discarded consumer goods and can remain in the environment for hundreds of years. Nowadays, they have found their way into many municipal drinking water systems. Chemical companies that create compounds such as water repellants, nonstick frying pan coatings, and cleaning sprays, among others, have reportedly been complicit in this issue but have been wary of taking responsibility. One company seemingly responsible is 3M.
For decades, 3M has manufactured chemicals providing function to many everyday items. Eventually, scientists discovered these chemicals to have devastating effects on humans by entering and remaining in their bloodstreams. Despite knowledge of the implications, companies like 3M have seemingly continued production and allowed manufacturing to release byproducts into nature. They also have reportedly been silent about potential for used products containing the chemicals to leech it into ground and, eventually, drinking water once discarded.
3M includes a boilerplate “Ethics & Compliance” statement on their website, but it seemingly avoids culpability and transparency on this or any specific issue. One would hope the company, which has reportedly admitted to the harm of these chemicals, would take a more aggressive stance on addressing future issues they may cause. Sign the petition below to urge 3M CEO Michael Roman to tackle problems apparently caused by their manufactured chemicals to undo mounting damage to the environment and human lives.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear CEO Roman,
3M has been a lead innovator in the world, producing products most households could not imagine living without. You have set the stage for others to follow suit and continue changing lives with new and improved products. However, some of your products are reportedly creating new problems as they solve others. Chemicals, namely, polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are a major issue that needs to be addressed sooner than later.
These chemicals are seemingly being emitted from manufacturing and leech into the ground after being discarded. They find their way into waterways and, most recently, are being discovered in drinking water. While all consequences of ingesting these chemicals are unknown, we do know they last a very long time in a person’s bloodstream and can lead to cancer and developmental defects. Action is needed now to address these concerns.
Your reported admittance to the harmful effects of your chemicals is a good first step. Addressing an interest in solving problems seemingly resulting from 3M products is also positive. Your website’s “Ethics & Compliance” statement gives the impression your company at least has a willingness to step up for this issue. Nonetheless, you are more equipped than any to remove 3M’s harmful chemicals from where they do not belong, and the time is now.
We urge you to as a powerful chemical company to not make people sick domestically and around the world.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Acroterion
