Manufacturing giant 3M has said it will stop making and using so-called "forever chemicals", common materials that have been linked to a range of health problems including cancer.
The firm, which also makes Post-Its, cited increased regulatory and consumer concern about the substances, known as PFAS, to explain the move.
Campaigners called the decision a "win for public health".
Known for their water-resistant and non-stick properties, the substances can be found in fire-fighting foams, mobile phones, clothing and non-stick cooking pans.
But researchers have long been concerned about the chemicals - known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS - because they do not break down under normal environmental conditions.
They have been found in dangerous concentrations in water, soil and food and can also linger in the body.
