On August 20, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published the updated restriction proposal on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The update was prepared by authorities from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, based on the evaluation of over 5,600 scientific and technical comments received during the 2023 consultation.
Key highlights:
- Expanded assessment to 8 additional sectors, including printing, sealing, machinery, certain medical uses, military, explosives, technical textiles, and broader industrial applications.
- Considered alternative restriction options—beyond a full ban—for areas such as manufacturing, transport, electronics & semiconductors, energy, sealing, machinery, and technical textiles.
- The proposal may be further revised based on ECHA committees’ opinions.
This update reflects the EU’s strengthened regulatory approach to PFAS. Companies should closely monitor compliance requirements and prepare for potential substitution measures.
