A proposal to restrict the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the EU, which was submitted by Denmark together with the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Germany in 2023, is currently being reviewed and assessed by ECHA's Scientific Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC). The proposal covers more than 10,000 PFAS substances within more than 14 sectors. More than 5,600 consultation responses to the restriction proposal have been received and are being reviewed by the authorities of the five countries as well as by RAC and SEAC.
So far, RAC and SEAC have not published their final assessments, and this will not happen until all sectors have been reviewed.
Other restriction options for certain sectors
While the restriction proposal is based on either a complete ban or a ban with time-limited derogations, another option is also considered, which includes conditions that allow the continued production, placing on the market or use of PFAS. This consideration is particularly relevant for uses and sectors where evidence suggests that a ban could lead to disproportionate socio-economic impacts such as batteries, fuel cells and electrolysis processes.
The work of assessing PFAS in the various sectors will continue in 2025 and can be followed here: Scientific evaluation of the proposal to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – Current status
If you want to know more about PFAS and substitution options, please contact:
Anne Rathmann Pedersen
arp@dhigroup.com
Tel +45 4516 9370
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