Texas Town Faces Fallout as Fertilizer Firm Exits Over Chemical Controversy

Fort Worth's decision to cut ties with the sludge fertilizer company signals a growing awareness of impending chemical pollution crises.

The City of Fort Worth, Texas, has opted to sever its relationship with Synagro, a company backed by Goldman Sachs that produces fertilizer derived from sewage sludge. This action comes in the wake of serious apprehensions about "forever chemicals," also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have allegedly been contaminating local farmland and groundwater.

This month, Fort Worth has also taken legal action against several manufacturers of these hazardous chemicals, accusing them of polluting the city’s water supplies. Last year, a group of ranchers in Johnson County, located just south of Fort Worth, initiated a lawsuit against Synagro, claiming that the sludge fertilizer used on adjacent farmland has led to the contamination of their crops and livestock. Synagro's previous agreement involved the collection of sewage from the city’s treatment plant, which was treated further and subsequently sold to farmers as fertilizer. Additionally, Johnson County has launched a criminal investigation targeting Synagro.

Research increasingly indicates that sewage sludge, frequently employed as fertilizer, may be tainted with PFAS, a synthetic compound commonly found in numerous consumer products, including nonstick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics. The ongoing situation in Fort Worth highlights widespread concerns over the environmental and health implications of such contaminants, urging immediate attention and action to protect local communities.