Restrictions on PFAS and Related Substances: A Crucial Step to Protect Human Health and the Environment
The European Commission has taken new measures to restrict the use of PFHxA and PFHxA-related substances to safeguard human health and the environment. These chemicals belong to the subgroup of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are highly persistent and mobile in water. Their use in certain products poses unacceptable risks to both human health and the environment.
What Products Are Affected by the PFHxA Restriction?
The restriction focuses on applications where the risk is not adequately controlled, alternatives are available, and socio-economic costs are minimal. The following products are subject to the ban on the sale and use of PFHxA:
- Consumer textiles (e.g., rain jackets)
- Food packaging (e.g., pizza boxes)
- Consumer mixtures (e.g., waterproofing sprays)
- Cosmetics (e.g., skin care products)
- Some firefighting foam applications for training and testing purposes
However, the restriction does not affect other uses of PFHxA, such as in semiconductors, batteries, or fuel cells for green hydrogen.
Progress in PFAS Regulations
The PFHxA restriction represents a significant advancement in reducing PFAS emissions. It targets PFHxA, which is often used as a substitute for another already banned PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). This decision is based on scientific assessments from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and has successfully passed scrutiny by the European Parliament and Council.
Next Steps
The restriction will formally enter into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal and will be phased in over transition periods ranging from 18 months to 5 years, depending on the use. This transition allows for the replacement of PFHxA with safer alternatives.
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” do not break down in the environment. Over the past 20 years, the EU has taken increasing measures to address PFAS pollution. The restriction of PFHxA is a crucial step in protecting both human health and the environment as part of the broader efforts to manage the risks posed by PFAS across Europe.
Source: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_4763