PFAS are widely used as they have unique desirable properties. For instance, they are stable under intense heat. Many of them are also surfactants and are used, for example, as water and grease repellents.
However, they are also extremely persistent, build up in the environment, some in our bodies as well. This is why they are often called forever chemicals. Tests indicate that some cause serious health effects such as cancer and liver damage.
In Europe, the manufacture and use of some PFAS are already restricted as part of the REACH Regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation & restriction of CHemicals) which stipulates the chemical substances that must be registered with ECHA.
In January 2023 Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway and Sweden have proposed a further REACH restriction that concerns more than 10,000 substances.
Many companies are worried about the outcome of this proposal, which is still pending due to the high workload. Although the opinions are normally ready within 12 months, in view of the complexity of the proposal the committees need more time. ECHA received more than 5600 comments, which means more than 100,000 pages to analyse...!
Once the opinions are adopted, they are sent to the European Commission, who together with the EU Member States will then decide on a potential restriction.
EFTTA is on the case. For now, we investigate if and how such a ban may impact the tackle industry, and - based on our findings - what to do about it.
More information
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Link to main ECHA PFAS page
Link to an informative podcast (scroll down)
