Gore Forward
Our Commitment to Community and the Environment
We’re committed to the well-being of the communities where we live and work.
Gore's Initiative to Investigate PFOA in Groundwater in Our Community
In 2023, limited amounts of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) were discovered in groundwater near Gore’s Cherry Hill facility in Elkton, Maryland. Although Gore has never manufactured PFOA, we recognize the importance of this topic for our community and immediately began working with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to investigate the source and extent of the issue. This marked the beginning of a science-based, community-focused response aimed at assessing the presence of PFOA in groundwater near some of our facilities in Cecil County, Maryland.
Since the initial discovery, Gore has launched a comprehensive investigation across multiple sites—including Cherry Hill, Fair Hill, Appleton, and Elk Mills. Our response includes hundreds of groundwater and soil samples, offering over 146 POET (point-of-entry treatment) filtration systems to affected homes, and the ongoing sharing of data with regulators and residents. Every step is part of a long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and maintaining trust with neighbors in our community.
Recent updates
We’re committed to providing clear, science-based information about Gore’s operations in Cecil County, MD. Here, you’ll find important clarifications and the latest data on our proactive work to monitor PFOA in groundwater near some of our facilities.
Manufacturing is more than just creating a product; it’s an opportunity to invest in a community, creating jobs and spurring economic growth. October 3 was
To Our Neighbors and Friends, Cecil County is a vibrant community that Gore is honored to call home. Today, over 100,000 people live in Cecil
On December 18, 2024, Gore submitted a Work Plan to MDE to install three additional onsite monitoring well. The Work Plan was approved by MDE
Learn more about our recent news and how we’re engaging with the community.
Our Data-Driven, Science-Backed Approach
Gore is actively working with the Maryland Department of the Environment, scientists, and the community to address the presence of PFOA in groundwater near some of our Maryland facilities. We’ve launched a comprehensive, data-driven response that includes groundwater and soil sampling, regular reporting, and direct support for nearby residents.
As part of this effort, we’ve collected more than 439 samples from over 238 locations, provided bottled water, offered over 146 POET (point-of-entry treatment) water filtration systems with long-term maintenance, and connected homes to public water where possible. Our work spans multiple campuses and incorporates leading technologies, with ongoing collaboration to guide the next steps and ensure community well-being.
Learn more about how data is driving our actions and how we’re leveraging the latest in testing approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PFOA/PFAS?
When people talk about PFAS in the context of water or the environment, they are often referring to specific compounds such as PFOA, PFOS, and four other PFAS compounds that are included in the EPA’s drinking water standards.
We’ve worked with our suppliers to eliminate PFOA from our supply chain and now only purchase fluoromaterials from vendors who certify they do not use PFOA.
Does/Did Gore manufacture PFOA?
No. Gore has never manufactured or processed PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid). Trace amounts were historically present in certain raw materials supplied to Gore. As a result, trace levels of PFOA were historically present in the raw materials used by Gore.
Gore only purchases fluoromaterials from suppliers who certify they do not use PFOA, and all of Gore’s PTFE suppliers have signed on to the EPA PFOA Voluntary Stewardship Program.
What is Gore doing to address the PFOA found in residents’ water?
Gore is taking a science-based, community-first approach in coordination with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). Our response includes:
- For residents within our sampling area: We provided bottled water and offered POET filtration systems—at no cost to residents and with long-term maintenance.
- New Sampling Methods: We’ve adopted advanced PFOA sampling procedures across multiple facilities.
- Sharing Data Findings: We’ve submitted site-specific work plans and shared data with regulators for review.
- Ongoing Collaboration: We continue working closely with MDE to assess impacts to groundwater and guide next steps.
- Significant Investment: Gore has committed substantial resources to ensure responsible investigation and support for impacted residents.
Have more questions? Read all frequently asked questions for more detailed information about this issue and Gore’s response.
Making a Difference in our Community
Gore is deeply connected to Cecil County—not just as a local business, but as a neighbor. We’re actively listening to community concerns, providing support to nearby residents, and engaging in open dialogue. We’ve been a part of the community in Cecil County for decades, strengthening the local economy, building lasting relationships, creating jobs, and investing in a stronger community.
Learn more about how we’re showing up and what’s ahead.