Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals linked to widespread contamination of drinking water sources across North Carolina. Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are difficult to break down and have become a significant environmental and public health issue. This post explores the areas in North Carolina most impacted by PFAS, alleged sources of contamination, the health risks potentially posed by exposure, and ongoing legal battles and PFAS lawsuits for affected communities.
North Carolina Areas Affected by PFAS Contamination
Several regions in North Carolina have been identified as PFAS contamination hotspots, primarily due to industrial and military activities. While the Cape Fear River Basin and Haw River have received the most attention, other areas, such as Greensboro’s water supply and Jordan Lake, are also affected.
Cape Fear River Basin
The Cape Fear River, a vital water source for southeastern North Carolina, has been significantly affected by PFAS contamination. The contamination is primarily attributed to the Chemours Fayetteville Works plant, which allegedly discharged PFAS chemicals, particularly GenX, into the river for decades. Studies have revealed some of the highest concentrations of PFAS in this river, putting surrounding communities at risk.
Haw River in Pittsboro
In Pittsboro, the Haw River has been severely contaminated with PFAS, impacting the town’s drinking water supply. The contamination allegedly comes from a combination of upstream industrial sites, wastewater treatment plants, and other polluters. Residents are increasingly concerned about the long-term health effects of exposure and have called for more stringent water treatment and legal actions.
Jordan Lake
Jordan Lake, a critical drinking water source for communities in central North Carolina, has shown traces of PFAS. While contamination levels are lower than in the Cape Fear or Haw River, the presence of PFAS is concerning. Industrial discharges and wastewater from nearby facilities are believed to be contributing to the contamination.
Greensboro’s Water Supply
PFAS have also been detected in Greensboro’s water system, specifically in the Mitchell Water Treatment Plant. The contamination is suspected to stem from industrial sites in the area. In response, the city has implemented advanced water treatment techniques to reduce PFAS levels, though long-term health risks remain a concern for residents.
Sources of PFAS Contamination: Industrial Sites and Military Bases
PFAS contamination is often traced back to industrial facilities and military bases that use or manufacture products containing these chemicals. In North Carolina, two primary sources have contributed to the contamination of local water supplies:
Industrial Facilities
Many industrial plants in North Carolina have been linked to PFAS contamination. Companies producing non-stick coatings, water-repellent fabrics, firefighting foams, and other products containing PFAS have allegedly released these chemicals into the environment through wastewater discharges and air emissions. The Chemours Fayetteville Works plant is one of the most notable culprits, responsible for significant PFAS pollution in the Cape Fear River Basin.
***IMPORTANT: It is important to note that the companies cited in this article and defendants in PFAS claims have strongly denied liability and/or wrongdoing. The outcome of these lawsuits is uncertain, and as of late 2024, there have been no major settlements in consumer lawsuits related to PFAS. Separately, major settlements have been agreed to in litigation initiated by municipalities and public water systems across the United States.
Military Bases
Military bases across North Carolina have also contributed to PFAS contamination. The primary source is the use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which contains high levels of PFAS, in firefighting drills and emergency responses. Facilities like Camp Lejeune, Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base have used AFFF for decades, allegedly resulting in PFAS leaching into the soil and groundwater.
Health Impacts of PFAS Exposure
The persistence of PFAS in the environment and their tendency to accumulate in the human body means long-term exposure can result in serious health consequences. Research has shown that prolonged exposure to PFAS is linked to:
- Kidney and liver damage
- Thyroid disease
- Immune system suppression
- Reproductive issues and developmental delays
- Increased cancer risk, particularly kidney and testicular cancer
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued health advisories for certain types of PFAS in drinking water, but the advisories are not legally enforceable. This leaves many residents of contaminated communities vulnerable to potential health risks.
The Ongoing Legal Battle
In North Carolina and across the United States, communities affected by PFAS contamination are seeking justice through legal action. Numerous lawsuits have been filed against companies like Chemours and DuPont, as well as the Department of Defense, for their alleged role in releasing PFAS into the environment and exposing residents to toxic chemicals.
Class action lawsuits, in particular, have gained traction. These legal actions aim to hold polluters accountable for the costs of cleaning up contaminated water supplies and compensating affected individuals. In North Carolina, communities around the Cape Fear River have already filed lawsuits, and more are expected to follow as awareness of the issue grows.
Contact Our Firm for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one have been exposed to PFAS-contaminated water in North Carolina and have developed a qualifying health condition, you may be eligible for compensation. Our experienced legal team is actively reviewing PFAS exposure cases and can help you determine if you qualify for a claim. Contact us today at 1-800-525-7111 for a free case review to discuss your situation.
To qualify for a PFAS-related claim, you must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Exposure to PFAS-contaminated groundwater in North Carolina, specifically areas like the Cape Fear River Basin, Haw River, or other affected regions
- A diagnosis of one of the following health conditions:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Liver damage
- Thyroid disease
- Immune system issues
- Certain other criteria may apply as this litigation evolves — please call 1-800-525-7111 for a FREE case review so we can evaluate your claim.
Don’t wait—if you’ve been exposed to PFAS and are suffering from related health problems, reach out to our firm today to explore your legal options. We are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. With over $800 million recovered for injury victims since 2000 alone (see disclaimer below), we're ready to help however we can.
Justice Counts.