3M, a manufacturer of personal protective equipment and health supplies, said it would work to discontinue manufacturing with "forever chemicals" by 2025.
The company said it will cease manufacturing products that are based in perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, according to a Dec. 20 news release. PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they are difficult to break down and can live for thousands of years. They're also used in everyday items including nonstick pans and waterproof clothing.
The Environmental Protection Agency has found links between PFAS and health concerns including several cancers, infertility, and developmental issues or delays in children.
3M said the decision to completely reduce manufacturing with the chemicals is because of "multiple factors such as accelerating regulatory trends."