Standing up to toxic PFAS polluters to protect the health of our communities.
Our Impact in 2024
In 2024, the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network (GLPAN) continued its dedicated work to address toxic PFAS contamination, protect public health, and advocate for legislative and community-driven solutions. By unifying impacted community leaders, fostering new partnerships, and educating policymakers, GLPAN made significant progress in tackling the toxic PFAS crisis in Michigan and across the Great Lakes region.
The drinking water of nearly 2 million Michiganders has been detected to have some level of PFAS.
According to the state of Michigan, there are more than 160 contaminated sites in Michigan, and the drinking water of nearly 2 million Michiganders has been detected to have some level of PFAS.
What are PFAS?
PFAS is an acronym that stands for Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS are a class of nearly 15,000 synthetic chemicals. Beginning in the 1940s, PFAS have been used in a variety of industrial products, like stain and water-resistant fabrics, cleaning products, paints, and fire-fighting foams. PFAS are commonly referred to as forever chemicals because they can take thousands of years to break down. Unfortunately, they are also linked to a wide array of health problems.
"My community has been drinking poisoned water and it’s caused serious health threats for me and my neighbors. This PFAS contamination has caused illnesses — it has taken lives. It’s time to hold corporate polluters accountable and put a stop to this once and for all.”
— Sandy Wynn-Stelt, a resident of Belmont, Michigan whose water was contaminated with PFAS
Ready to join the movement addressing PFAS contamination?
Join the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network to stay informed and get the tools and resources you need to hold polluters in our communities responsible and seek cleanup solutions.
Image of PFAS foam is Oscoda, MI courtesy of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. CC. http://ow.ly/hwC350Fv3Wx