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Our Approach to Assessing PFOA in Groundwater

Since PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) was detected in groundwater near our Cherry Hill facility in 2023, Gore has taken swift, science-based action to assess the issue and support our community.

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How We’re Responding

Collaboration

We’ve worked closely with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to establish and implement leading methods for testing for PFOA in groundwater. We are regularly reporting our findings to necessary agencies and members of our community.

Monitoring

Using a science-based approach, Gore has installed more than 100 monitoring wells and is collecting additional samples from residential wells and soil borings to assess potential impacts on our community.

Support

Gore provided bottled water to residents in sampling areas and installed POET (Point-of-Entry Treatment) water filtration systems—at no cost—for homes that participated in sampling efforts.

Our Commitment

We are committed to environmental stewardship. We’ve invested millions of dollars to identify potential impacts to groundwater, determine appropriate remediation measures, and provide alternative water access to impacted members of the community.

The Path Forward

We are leading by example. We’re addressing environmental concerns using the best available science and in collaboration with Maryland state regulators.

Adoption of New Sampling Methods

Gore has been on the forefront instituting advanced PFOA sampling approaches in collaboration with MDE-approved procedures near our facilities.

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Sharing Data Findings

We’ve submitted multiple site-specific work plans and shared preliminary conclusions with MDE for review and guidance.

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Community Response

We’ve provided bottled water and installed POET systems for impacted residents in coordination with MDE.

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Ongoing Collaboration

We continue working with MDE to review findings, share data and assess impacts to groundwater.

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Significant Investment

Gore has committed millions of dollars to assess and respond to potential PFOA presence near our facilities.

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What are PFAS & PFOA?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The term PFAS describes a large group of thousands of different chemicals with very different properties. That’s why we believe it is important to be specific about the type of PFAS being discussed. When people talk about PFAS in the context of water or the environment, they’re usually referring to PFOA, or perfluorooctanoic acid, a specific type of non-polymer PFAS that is mobile in the environment. Gore has been proactive for decades, working with our suppliers to eliminate these substances from our fluoromaterial supply chain, reflecting our commitment to health, safety, and environmental responsibility. 

While Gore never manufactured PFOA, historically, trace amounts were present in our raw materials. We currently only purchase PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) from fluoromaterial suppliers that certify they do not use PFOA in their manufacturing processes and participate in the US EPA Voluntary PFOA Stewardship program.

For more information about PFAS, PFOA and how it impacts your water, please visit the Maryland Department of the Environment’s PFAS Resource Center to explore interactive maps, health advisories, and how water safety is being tested and addressed across Cecil County.

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For More Information

Gore is committed to open communication with the community. For answers to common questions, visit our Frequently Asked Questions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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