SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Napoli Shkolnik proudly supports the efforts of Milberg Amsterdam in filing a landmark complaint on behalf of the Dutch Fisherman Union against the 3M Company for the widespread contamination of the Western Scheldt River with per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”). This contamination has caused significant harm to the river’s ecosystem, devastating the local fishing industry and threatening the livelihoods of countless fishermen in the region.
Since 1963, the 3M Company has operated in Belgium, with its headquarters in Diegem and a manufacturing plant in Zwijndrecht, located near the Western Scheldt River. This proximity has resulted in the release of PFAS into the river, a critical waterway for Dutch fishermen. PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are highly persistent in the environment and bioaccumulate in living organisms, leading to severe ecological and human health consequences.
A study conducted by the University of Amsterdam highlights the far-reaching impact of PFAS contamination in the Netherlands, revealing that residents ingest over three times more PFAS through food than through drinking water. Fish, a staple in the Dutch diet, is particularly affected as it often contains high concentrations of PFAS, further endangering public health and the viability of the fishing industry.
“PFAS contamination is not just a Dutch problem – it is a global crisis, and companies like 3M must be held accountable for their role in perpetuating it,” said Paul Napoli, a Partner at Napoli Shkolnik. “The Western Scheld River contamination exemplifies the urgent need to protect both vulnerable ecosystems and the communities whose livelihoods depend on them.”
Coral M. Odiot-Rivera, Partner at Napoli Shkolnik, added, “Napoli Shkolnik has long been dedicated to environmental justice, and this case is no exception. The fishing community in the Netherlands has suffered immeasurable harm due to 3M’s negligence. It’s time for corporations to step up and take responsibility for the long-term damage they’ve inflicted on both people and the planet.”
The legal action aims to secure justice of the Dutch fishing community, demanding that 3M take full responsibility for the environmental and economic damage it has caused. Napoli Shkolnik is honored to stand with Milberg Amsterdam in their pursuit of accountability and restoration for those affected by this ongoing environmental disaster.
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About Napoli Shkolnik
Napoli Shkolnik is a national law firm providing representation in complex environmental litigation, including cases involving hazardous substances and their adverse impact on communities. With a dedicated team of attorneys and a proven track record of success, Napoli Shkolnik provides exceptional legal representation and fights for justice on behalf of those affected by environmental wrongdoing.
