The European Commission intends to propose a ban on the use of PFAS, or “forever chemicals”, in consumer products, making an exception for major industrial applications, The Irish Examiner reports.
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, do not break down in the environment, raising concerns about the effects of their accumulation in ecosystems, drinking water and the human body.
They are used in thousands of items, from cosmetics and non-stick pans to aeroplanes and wind turbines, because of their resistance to extreme temperatures and corrosion. EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall said in an interview:
“What we know we are looking for is a ban in consumer products. This is something that is important for us human beings, of course, but also for the environment, but I think also for the industry so they know how they can phase out PFAS.”
Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden supported a broad ban on PFAS almost two years ago, but Ms. Rosvall said the EU proposal was not likely to be adopted until next year at the earliest, as “important” exemptions would be identified.
She said potential “essential” uses included asthma inhalers and semiconductors used in green technologies such as electric cars, although these too would face restrictions, including on how they could be disposed of.
The European Chemicals Agency’s work to assess the scope of the ban has generated thousands of comments, including from trade associations representing the automotive, clean energy and plastics sectors asking for exemptions.
