French ‘Chemical Valley’ residents sue major industrial firms

Residents living near the Arkema and Daikin chemical plants in the ‘Chemical Valley’ area outside Lyon, France, have filed a major lawsuit after high levels of toxic PFAS (‘forever chemicals’) were found in their blood. Supported by environmental groups, over 400 people are seeking compensation in what could become Europe’s largest PFAS-related civil case. PFAS are used in products such as cosmetics, food packaging and non-stick coatings. They are known to persist in the body and have been linked to cancers, fertility issues and developmental problems. Although France has passed a partial PFAS ban due to take effect in 2026, locals say this does not go far enough. Around 220,000 people could be affected. Among the plaintiffs raising awareness and demanding accountability is Thierry Mounib, a local activist whose family has suffered health issues.