Work is currently ongoing at the EU level to establish a scientific basis for the regulation of the group of chemicals known as per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are organic compounds that contain at least one completely fluorinated carbon atom. Their chemical structure gives them particular characteristics. For instance, they are resistant to water, dirt, and fat, withstand high temperatures, and have only limited reactivity with other chemicals. In view of these characteristics, they are deployed in many areas of application and products such as mobile telephones, wind turbines, cosmetics, medical devices, and raincoats.
However, PFAS only degrade very slowly, if at all. Once they have been released, they persist for decades in the environment, where they accumulate and cause damage. What is more, PFAS can also be absorbed into the human body, either as a result of concentration along the food chain or via drinking water. Some PFAS increase the risk of kidney cancer or reduced fertility. It is assumed other PFAS that have not been investigated as thoroughly to date also share the same characteristics.
Certain PFAS are already covered by specific legal provisions. Others are not. This situation means that regulated PFAS tend to be replaced by other PFAS with highly similar characteristics. PFAS continue to be used very widely and in large quantities, and can disperse into the environment.
With the aim of minimising environmental emissions of PFAS, the authorities responsible for the registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals (REACH) in Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway have prepared a restriction proposal that would lead to the gradual phasing out of this whole class of substances. As envisaged in the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, PFAS are to be substituted wherever this is already feasible today or will be in the foreseeable future. At the same time it is to be made possible for PFAS to continue being used for limited periods if there are still no suitable PFAS-free alternatives or alternative technologies.
This holistic approach will ensure that both the ecological transformation of our economy and society and the gradual phasing out of PFAS’ various applications are managed successfully in tandem. The proposal is currently being scrutinised and fine-tuned by the ECHA’s independent scientific committees.