On 7 February 2023, The European Union Chemicals Agency (ECHA) put forward a proposal to restrict the use of Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). If it passes, it will ban the production and import of a group of more than 10,000 persistent chemicals.
PFAS, also known as perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), are classified as persistent chemicals. These industrial chemicals are widely used in industrial and consumer products due to their exceptional durability and water resistance. These products include non-stick cookware, electronic products, semiconductors and solar panels. However, studies have indicated that the chemicals remain persistent in the environment and can potentially cause adverse health effects.
The main aim of the ECHA’s proposal is to minimise the release of PFAS into the environment. To achieve this, it seeks to ban the manufacturing, usage, and marketing of these chemicals under the EU’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals Regulation (REACH). Following a scientific evaluation of the proposal, a six-month consultation will start on 22 March 2023. If the proposal passes, this restriction will significantly impact the use of these chemicals.
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