Survey Reveals Public Concern, Exposure and Demand for Accountability

Napoli Shkolnik conducted a national survey to gauge how Americans view environmental threats and how much trust they place in the systems meant to protect them. The 2025 Environmental Contaminants Survey, conducted with Dynata, contains responses from 1,000 adults across the country.

The data challenges the idea that people don’t care:

• 87% of Americans say they’re concerned about pollution
• 1 in 4 describe themselves as deeply concerned — among parents, that number rises to 40%
• 80% believe their families have already been exposed to environmental contaminants

While concern is widespread, critical gaps in knowledge remain:

• Only 30% know what PFAS are and why they matter, despite widespread exposure.
• Women face higher biological risks, but awareness is lower — only 17% understand EtO’s impact, compared to 25% of men.
• Just 1 in 4 Southerners and 1 in 5 Midwesterners say they’re very concerned, despite these areas hosting the most toxic facilities and facing long histories of industrial pollution.

People want protection, but trust in local systems is shaky:

• 80% want stronger action, including independent air and water testing and tougher penalties for polluters
• Yet only 17% say they’re very confident local governments will protect them from harm

Why Legal Action Matters More Than Ever

This article uncovers the devastating impact of toxins like PFAS, microplastics, and heavy metals on communities and ecosystems. Equip yourself with the facts you need to understand this pressing issue.

• Learn the True Costs
  Explore the startling financial, environmental, and public health costs of contamination, supported by real-world cases and expert analysis.
• Discover Legal Solutions
  Understand the powerful legal tools available to hold polluters accountable and how municipalities and advocates can use them to demand justice and compensation.
• Drive Meaningful Change
  Knowledge is power, and this report provides the foundation for informed action. Whether you’re an advocate, policymaker, or legal professional, these insights will help you make a difference.