A U.S. company has been identified as a key contributor to the worldwide spread of persistent, toxic chemicals known as forever chemicals, according to an Al Jazeera investigation. The report highlights how the firm’s production and use of these substances have led to widespread contamination that is difficult to remediate.

Forever chemicals, such as perfluoroalkyl substances, are engineered for resistance to heat and water. Their chemical structure makes them difficult to break down, allowing them to accumulate in the environment and in living organisms. Because they do not readily degrade, they can travel long distances through air and water currents.

The investigation shows that the company’s activities have resulted in contamination of water supplies, soils, and air in multiple countries, raising concerns about long‑term health effects for communities and wildlife. Exposure to these substances has been linked to a range of adverse health outcomes, including developmental disorders and cancer.

Regulators worldwide are now reviewing the company’s practices, and several jurisdictions are tightening limits on emissions and demanding remediation. The story underscores the need for global cooperation to address the persistent threat posed by these chemicals, and future efforts will focus on stricter controls and cleanup initiatives to reduce exposure and protect ecosystems.