PFAS stands for per- and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds, which are used in almost all industries. They are long-lived and persist in the environment - increasing the risk of damage to human health. Four EU member states have therefore submitted a proposal for restrictions to achieve a Europe-wide ban on these chemicals. This ban would have a devastating impact on public, private and industrial water supplies, Figawa said. The distribution and use of gases and liquid fuels in energy supply would also be affected.
"As representatives of professional applications with the highest quality requirements in critical areas of our society, we support the European initiative to restrict PFAS materials. However, we call for differentiated regulation that excludes non-critical fluoropolymer applications," said Volker Meyer, Figawa's chief executive. He added that Figawa has formulated detailed statements outlining that fluoropolymers are essential for water and energy supply. During the ongoing consultation process of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) on the restriction of PFAS, Figawa will submit a detailed statement with further data.