The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), together with five national authorities, has published an interim report on the ongoing restriction process for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The report shows initial openness towards regulatory options other than a comprehensive ban with a few exceptions. This is a cautious signal in the right direction for the industries in Europe that rely on PFAS. However, there is still considerable uncertainty among the companies affected, which is also preventing investment. "It is now up to politicians and not just the authorities to shape the regulatory framework for PFAS in such a way that environmental and competitive objectives can be reconciled," says Dr. Sarah Brückner, Head of Environment and Sustainability at VDMA.
Fluoropolymers for high-tech industrial applications
The ECHA progress report emphasizes that alternative regulatory options are now also being examined in order to minimize PFAS emissions over the entire life cycle. Fluoropolymers, which are hardly substitutable in many key technologies due to their unique properties, are explicitly highlighted in the report. ECHA notes that alternatives for certain applications of these substances and measures to minimize their emissions to the environment have been identified.
Current status of the procedure is not sufficient
Spokespersons for the SPECTARIS and VDMA associations emphasize that the current status of the procedure is not sufficient for the industry. Waiting any longer creates planning risks in the short term and could lead to the migration of key industries in the long term. The industry associations are therefore calling for greater involvement of political decision-makers in the further course of the process.