“What do you mean leaking?” Gerald looked down to Dr. Charles Kirchoff, one of the senior scientists in charge of maintaining RDF Plastics policies and procedures. A short, mousey man, Dr. Kirchoff was a stickler for following the rules, towing the line, and ensuring everyone complied with company policy. Kirchoff was the first to inform Gerald of the potential PFAS hazard. The Environmental Protection Agency fined a competitor of RDF Plastics less than a month ago for improper disposal of fluoropolymer, a.k.a. Teflon. Particulate matter seeped into the groundwater, and the court fined the company 15 million dollars. The hefty fine shook up all plastic and chemical producing companies in the United States, putting the board of RDF Plastics and Gerald on notice. The EPA said they are more concerned with the amount of particulate plastic per million gallons in the water. Lobbyists working for various chemical companies ensured the restriction of the EPA’s oversight and testing for PFAS, which changed with the newly elected president.

“PFAS, or Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have the potential to cause permanent ecological damage not only to the groundwater outside each of their facilities but also to the world,” Charles explained, walking to the elevator with Gerald Moloski, the Chief Executive Officer of RDF Plastics. Gerald came to the labs looking for new applications for their recycled plastics. He didn’t want bad news, but every time Charles opened his mouth, that’s what he could expect. “These PFAS, Mr. Moloski, could react to other chemicals, causing more damage to livestock and crops. You need to shut down production for a few weeks.” Charles struggled to say that much, pausing after saying the magic words, ‘shut down,’ believing every rumor he had heard about the RDF Plastics CEO. Gerald was known for being brutal and harsh, but being unkind? He knew enough to know that wouldn’t sit well with those he was leading. And he prided himself on being a good – no, a great leader. Unkind behavior wouldn’t serve him or the board well.

“We’re not shutting down production, Charles. Not for an undefined length of time. There is too much demand for plastics and plastic parts. We must keep ahead of the curve to compete. What other options do we have?” Gerald glanced up, noticing the light above the elevator wasn’t lighting up.

“Well, Mr. Moloski, there aren’t any other options.” The doors opened, and Gerald stepped inside, inviting Dr. Kirchoff inside. “If we can’t stop production and determine where the leaks are coming from, there is no way to determine the viability of any leak prevention. We can’t do that. Not when we’re operating at full capacity.” Dr. Kirchoff held the doors open, refusing to step inside.

“Dr. Kirchoff. Come with me.” Gerald was insistent on Charles going upstairs.

“I can’t, sir. I’m behind as it is.” Gerald pursed his lips tight and nodded yes.

“I understand. Dr. Kirchoff, we’re not going to relay this to anyone. Not the board. Not the other directors. And especially not the EPA.” He winked and fired a finger gun at him. “Got it?”

“Yes, Mr. Moloski,” Kirchoff replied, watching the CEO disappear from view as the elevator doors slid shut.