On November 20, 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the five national agencies of Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden recently jointly released a detailed report outlining the restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in Europe (PFAS) latest developments. The report is based on more than 5,600 scientific and technical feedback collected by the Risk Assessment Committee and Socio-Economic Analysis Committee during the 2023 public consultation period and aims to update and improve the management strategy for PFAS.


PFAS Restriction Program

It is important to note that the dossier's intention is to minimize the release of PFAS to avoid further accumulation of PFAS in the environment and subsequent exposure to humans and the environment.

The initial PFAS restriction dossier contains two restriction options: a complete ban or a time-limited ban (alternatives have not yet been provided). The submitter proposes the latter option to allow for an orderly replacement process when alternatives become available, without jeopardizing the availability of uses, such as enabling a green energy transition.

In addition to the two bans, other restrictive options are also being considered. For example, another option could include conditions that would allow continued production, placing on the market or use of PFAS instead of a ban. This consideration is particularly important for uses and sectors where there is evidence that bans may result in disproportionate socioeconomic impacts. These alternative options are being considered for the following uses, including but not limited to:

Battery;
fuel cells;
Electrolyzer.

The proportion of each alternative option will be assessed and compared with the original two restricted options of a complete ban or a time-limited ban. All this latest information will be factored into the ECHA Commission's ongoing assessment of the proposal.