Lawsuit against PFAS polluter Asahi Kasei Plastics North America, Inc. results in accountability for costs, cleanup

JANUARY 30, 2023

LANSING - The Great Lakes PFAS Action Network released the following statements after Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the first settlement in a lawsuit filed as part of her PFAS Litigation project to hold polluters accountable for cleaning up their PFAS contamination in Michigan communities. 

“Today’s announcement is a significant step forward in addressing toxic PFAS contamination and holding PFAS polluters accountable,” said Tony Spaniola, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. “We commend Attorney General Nessel for her ongoing efforts to bring to justice the polluters who are contaminating Michigan’s land and water. We know that she’s made this a high priority, and we believe that she has sent a strong and important message to polluters across our state.”

As a result of the settlement, Asahi must investigate PFAS released into soil, groundwater and surface water from its former facility on Whitmore Lake Road. If PFAS is detected that exceeds state standards, Asahi will be required to take additional steps to cut off harmful exposures. Asahi is also required to pay the State’s past and future oversight costs and litigation costs so there will be no cost shifts to taxpayers. 

“Companies that pollute our water with toxic PFAS contaminants are having real harm and impacts on people across our state,” said Sandy Wynn-Stelt, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. “We are hopeful that the Attorney General’s efforts will result in additional settlements that require more companies to clean up their contamination to protect the health of Michigan communities.”