American consumer giant “3M” is in a world of financial hurt – with legal action likely from the Australian Government as part of a multi-national legal suit.

3M in America, has just settled a six-billion dollar litigation – over the production of defective ear plugs, which resulted in loss of hearing for military veterans, and those still in the service.

But in another case, Canberra’s looking at taking legal action, in response to the company’s alleged involvement in pollution, involving fire extinguishing foam – and other household chemicals.

If successful, Australia’s part of the payout would cost 3M  more than USD$30 million..