The Village of Endicott in the state of New York of United States, has filed a lawsuit against IBM, alleging that the company's operations led to the contamination of its water supply with hazardous chemicals, including 1,4-Dioxane, PFAS, and other toxic substances. The lawsuit claims that IBM's improper disposal of industrial solvents used in degreasers at its facilities from 1911 to 2002 caused contamination of soil, surface water, and groundwater.
The village is seeking accountability for the contamination, which has forced the closure of several drinking wells and incurred significant costs for cleanup and mitigation. The lawsuit cites multiple incidents of spills and leaks, including a significant underground chemical plume discovered in 2002.
The complaint highlights several incidents, including a significant underground chemical plume discovered in 2002, which spread across 350 acres. The hazardous chemicals mentioned include 1,4-Dioxane, PFAS, trichloroethylene (TCE), and methylchloroform (TCA). These chemicals are linked to serious health issues, including cancer.
IBM's roots in the village of Endicott trace back to the formation of the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company (CTR) in 1911, which later became IBM. The company chose Endicott as its headquarter.
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| IBM Endicott during World War II |
Now in 2024, on 31 December, demolition of the IBM building, at Endicott, has been started and will take about 5 months to completely demolish it. This marks a significant moment for the village, as these buildings have been vacant since 2007 and are considered blighted structures. The demolition project is expected to take around five months and is being led by Gorick Construction. The project is funded by $6 million from the New York State government and $2 million from Broome County's American Rescue Plan Act funds.
This lawsuit represents a significant step towards holding IBM accountable for the environmental and public health impacts caused by its industrial practices over the decades.
The village's water supply has been significantly impacted, with several drinking wells closed due to contamination. The village currently relies on a single well, with plans to drill an additional well in 2025.
The village is suing IBM for multiple violations, including those under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), public nuisance, failure to warn, negligence, trespass, and seeking punitive damages.
The village is seeking both compensatory and punitive damages, as well as a jury trial.
IBM has stated that it has been committed to the health and safety of the community and will vigorously defend itself against the claims. The company has also highlighted its long history of remediation activities in Endicott.
It's a complex and ongoing legal battle with significant implications for both the village and the company.
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