EU plans PFAS ban in consumer products by 2026

The European Commission is moving forward with plans to ban per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products, though any ban is not expected until at least 2026 as the EU considers industry requests for exemptions. Environmental Commissioner Jessika Roswall emphasized the importance of defining what constitutes 'essential' uses of PFAS, which are often labeled as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment. The proposed ban has garnered support from several EU countries, including Denmark and Germany, but trade associations representing various industries have lobbied for exemptions, citing the critical role of PFAS in numerous applications. In the U.S., Maine's Department of Environmental Protection is also evaluating the necessity of PFAS in products, proposing a rule that would require manufacturers to justify their use of these chemicals. The scrutiny surrounding PFAS arises from their links to serious health concerns, including cancer, prompting both European and American regulatory actions. The EU's final regulations on PFAS are anticipated to take shape over the coming years, with ongoing discussions regarding the balance between environmental safety and industry needs.