In August, five countries (the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway) submitted a proposal to phase out the production and use of PFAS Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in Europe. This proposal is now under evaluation by the scientific committees of ECHA European Chemicals Agency (European Chemicals Agency). A public-friendly version of the proposal – over 3,000 pages – is now available.
The five collaborating countries have worked on a joint summary titled ‘What you need to know about the updated PFAS restriction dossier’ (external link). This document allows companies to prepare for a potential ban on applications.
The phase-out of PFAS can be done quickly where possible, according to the initiating countries. Where alternatives to PFAS do not yet exist, it will take longer. For the latest news on how the dossier is progressing, one can visit the ECHA website (external link).
PFAS is a widely used substance that does not break down in the environment. PFAS have effects on human health. RIVM and the REACH Bureau REACH Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals) contribute on behalf of the Netherlands to the PFAS restriction dossier.