Progress on the EU PFAS Restriction Proposal: ECHA Provides Key Updates

On 20 November 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), in collaboration with authorities from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden, provided a progress update on the restriction proposal for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).  The update outlines the current status and future plans of ECHA's Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) as they assess the potential impact of the proposed restriction on different sectors using PFAS.

Submitted in January 2023, the PFAS restriction proposal under REACH aims to reduce the environmental and health risks associated with these persistent chemicals. PFAS are a group of thousands of man-made chemicals known for their persistence, bioaccumulation and potential toxic effects. The proposed restriction aims to ban the manufacture, use and sale of these substances in the EU in order to reduce their environmental and health impacts.

Extensive Consultation and Sector-Specific Insights

More than 5,600 scientific and technical comments were received during the six-month consultation in 2023, providing valuable insights into PFAS uses and alternatives across Europe. Newly identified uses include:

• Sealing applications: Fluoropolymer uses in seals, gaskets, and pipe linings.

• Technical textiles: High performance membranes and technical fabrics for outdoor use.

• Medical applications: Pharmaceutical packaging and excipients.

• Printing: Permanent parts and consumables.

Fluoropolymers, a subgroup of PFAS, have emerged as a key area of interest during the consultation process. Stakeholder input has provided critical insights into the availability of alternatives for certain fluoropolymer applications and the measures needed to minimise their environmental emissions. The socio-economic implications of restricting their manufacture, market placement, and use are being carefully evaluated. Due to their significance, fluoropolymers are receiving focused attention from all actors involved in the opinion development process.

Exploring Alternative Restriction Options

In addition to the initial proposals for a total ban or a ban with time-limited derogations, alternative options are being assessed to balance risk reduction with socio-economic impacts. These may include conditional authorisations for specific uses, such as:

• Batteries, fuel cells, and electrolysers

• Medical devices and semiconductors

The European Commission, with input from ECHA’s Risk Assessment and Socio-Economic Analysis Committees (RAC and SEAC), will evaluate these options and take final decisions.

Next Steps

ECHA and the dossier submitters will continue to refine their evaluation throughout 2025, leading to a consolidated opinion. Stakeholders will have further opportunities to provide input on socio-economic aspects before final decisions are taken.