Riverkeeper Sues Shaw Industries Over PFAS Pollution

Congaree Riverkeeper, represented by the Southern Environmental Law Center, has filed a lawsuit in federal court against Shaw Industries due to Shaw’s illegal discharges of PFAS "forever chemicals" into the Lower Saluda River. The lawsuit comes after a March notice letter notifying Shaw of our intent to sue over the pollution at its Columbia plant.

“Shaw is polluting a scenic trout fishery and drinking water source for thousands of South Carolinians with highly toxic PFAS chemicals,” said Carl Brzorad, SELC Senior Associate Attorney. “The case we filed today seeks to stop this unlawful pollution.”

Shaw, a global flooring manufacturer, operates a 470-acre facility on the banks of the Lower Saluda River in Columbia where it produces synthetic components used to make carpets. The case alleges that Shaw is discharging PFAS into the river without a permit as required by the federal Clean Water Act, and that PFAS and other toxins are escaping from Shaw’s unlined wastewater lagoons and contaminating groundwater and the river.

PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment and build up in the bodies of exposed people and fish. Harmful at extremely low levels, PFAS have been linked to cancers and other serious illnesses.

“The Lower Saluda River is a beloved part of the Midlands – a designated State Scenic River, a popular recreation destination, and home to an abundance of wildlife,” said Bill Stangler, Congaree Riverkeeper. “By discharging PFAS into the Lower Saluda, Shaw harms our precious resources and the drinking water source for the communities of West Columbia and Cayce.”

Earlier this month, the City of Columbia also sued Shaw Industries, naming the company when seeking damages against multiple companies for manufacturing, using, and/or releasing PFAS upstream of Columbia’s drinking water intakes.

You can read more in these articles:

The State Newspaper - Toxic chemicals in SC river traced to Irmo manufacturing plant, lawsuit says

The Post and Courier - Environmental groups sue manufacturers for allegedly pumping 'forever chemicals' into Columbia river

WISTV - Groups sue Columbia carpet manufacturer for “forever chemical” pollution