PFAS: ECHA´s Updates on PFAS Restriction Evaluation

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has released important updates on the ongoing evaluation of the proposed restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Europe.
In their November 2024 meetings, ECHA's Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) made significant progress in evaluating the EU-wide PFAS restriction proposal. They reached provisional conclusions on three key sectors:

• Construction products
• Textiles, upholstery, leather, apparel and carpets
• Food contact materials and packaging

The committees also announced plans to evaluate additional sectors in upcoming meetings. In March 2025, they will discuss applications of fluorinated gases, transport, and energy. Following that, they will focus on lubricants, medical devices, and electronics and semiconductors.
In addition to a full ban or a ban with time-limited derogations, alternative options are being considered. These may allow the manufacture, market placement, or use of PFAS under certain conditions, especially where a ban could lead to disproportionate socio-economic impacts. Relevant sectors include: batteries, fuel cells and electrolysers. Full progress update on the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) restriction process can be found here.