The Australian government has filed a lawsuit against U.S. manufacturing giant 3M seeking approximately $1.4 billion in damages over contamination from PFAS chemicals, known as "forever chemicals," at defense sites across the country.

The case, valued at A$2 billion, represents the largest legal action ever brought by the Australian government. The lawsuit centers on contamination at military facilities where 3M's firefighting foam containing PFAS chemicals was used.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment and human body for extended periods, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." These substances have been linked to various health concerns and environmental damage.

The contamination stems from the use of 3M's firefighting foam products at Australian defense installations. The foam, which contained PFAS compounds, was designed for extinguishing fuel fires but resulted in chemical contamination of soil and groundwater at multiple sites.

The legal action seeks to recover costs associated with cleanup efforts and damages from the contamination. The case highlights growing global concerns about PFAS pollution and corporate responsibility for environmental remediation.