ECHA has published an updated proposal to restrict the use of PFAS, prepared by five Member States on the basis of more than 5,600 comments from the consultations conducted in 2023. The document covers new sectors as well as alternative restriction options, and the final decision will be taken by the European Commission following the assessment of the ECHA committees.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published an updated proposal to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under REACH. The update follows the evaluation by authorities from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden of more than 5,600 scientific and technical comments received during the public consultation held in 2023.
The updated Background Document includes new assessments covering eight additional sectors such as printing, sealing, machinery, medical uses, military uses, explosives, technical textiles, and broader industrial applications. The document also analyses alternative restriction options that would allow the continuation of specific PFAS uses under strict conditions, in cases where the risks can be effectively controlled.
ECHA’s scientific Committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) are currently evaluating the updated proposal. Their opinions will provide guidance to the European Commission, which will take the final decision in consultation with the EU Member States.
The objective of the proposal is to significantly reduce PFAS emissions and ensure safer products and processes for both people and the environment.
Source: ECHA website
