Taking Action, Protecting Michigan

PFAS

• Governor's Directive Creates the PFAS Action Response Team

  What You Need to Know About PFAS Contamination

  Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as PFCs, have been classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency as an emerging contaminant on the national level. PFAS are a suite of chemicals historically used in thousands of applications throughout the industrial, food, and textile industries.  They are incredibly stable, breaking down very slowly in the environment, and are highly soluble, easily transferring through soil to groundwater. PFAS contamination has been identified in several locations across the state of Michigan as a result of use in multiple industries across the State. PFAS is used in firefighting foams, food packaging, cleaning products, and various other products. It is also used by many industries such as plating, tanneries, or clothing manufacturers, where waterproofing may be required or a protective film is needed in a manufacturing process.

  Governor Snyder and the State of Michigan are taking action to address this issue in a proactive and innovative way. Ten state departments, in coordination with local and federal officials across Michigan, are working together to ensure that the public health and safety of residents is protected while ensuring our environmental heritage is secure for generations of Michiganders to come.

  This site is intended to serve as the main resource for public information on PFAS contamination in Michigan. It will be updated regularly as additional facts about the issue and locations impacted becomes available.