Chemical Industry Lobbies Against PFAS Ban in Europe

Le Monde and its partners have unveiled a significant lobbying campaign by the chemical industry to prevent a European ban on PFAS, or 'forever chemicals', which are widely used in consumer products but pose severe environmental and health risks. These substances, found in items like nonstick pans and firefighting foam, are almost indestructible and linked to health issues such as cancers and infertility. The European proposal for a 'universal restriction' on PFAS has faced strong opposition from the industry, arguing that banning them would lead to socio-economic disruptions. However, the cleanup cost of existing PFAS pollution in Europe and the UK is estimated to exceed £1.6 trillion over 20 years, highlighting the significant public health and financial challenges posed by these chemicals. In France alone, the cost of addressing PFAS contamination in water could reach €12 billion annually. Despite the industry's resistance, the elimination of PFAS is deemed a priority for public health due to their persistent presence and harmful effects.