Seattle-based firm Hagens Berman has filed a class action lawsuit against W. L. Gore & Associates, parent company and manufacturer of GORE-TEX. The suit alleges that the company is guilty of greenwashing, a tactic where companies or manufacturers intentionally mislead customers about their sustainability practices, in this case, W. L. Gore & Associates’ use of harmful substances perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl, more commonly known as PFAS. According to the EPA, PFAS break down slowly over time and have been linked to harmful diseases, including cancer and infertility.
GORE-TEX, which is known for its top of the line waterproof technical fabric, has long used PFAS for its materials. However, prompted by state bans, W. L. Gore & Associates has moved to offer a PFAS-free expanded polyethylene (ePE) membrane. According to the current GORE-TEX website, the next generation membrane “is PFAS free and achieves a reduced carbon footprint when compared to its predecessors.” The statement is accompanied by a footnote that states, “made without intentionally added per- and polyfluorinated substances; may contain trace amounts.”
The suit alleges that despite W. L. Gore & Associates to move forward with PFAs-free manufacturing, all products not classed as “next generation” are still being made with PFAs material. The complaint reads, “Gore knowingly, affirmatively, and actively concealed, omitted or suppressed, or recklessly disregarded the true character, quality, and nature of the PFAS utilized in its products, including the environmental impact and health risks.” Similarly, in December of 2024, a class action lawsuit was brought against W. L. Gore & Associates for their alleged PFAS pollution of the environment surrounding its Elkton, Maryland-based facility.
In a statement given to Gear Junkie, a spokesperson for the brand said, “Gore stands behind its representations, statements and advertisements regarding our commitment to environmental responsibility as well as the performance and safety of our GORE-TEX products.”
Check back here for more updates on the case.
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