PFAS : Chemical Substances under Surveillance
Perfluoroalkylated and polyfluoroalkylated substances, commonly known as PFAS, are a family of almost 4,000 synthetic chemical compounds used since the 1950s for their non-stick, heat-resistant and waterproofing properties. PFASs are not a single substance, but a large group of over 10,000 chemicals with very strong carbon-fluorine bonds. They include perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS).
They are used to manufacture products such as fabrics, food packaging, non-stick cooking surfaces and pesticides, which require stability to resist heat, oil and water. But this stability also means that these chemicals are less biodegradable and can therefore persist in the environment, and in organisms, for a long time, as well as being mobile over long distances.
Environmental and Health Impact
PFAS are released into the environment mainly by industrial activities, fire-fighting foams and wastewater treatment plants. Research into the health impacts of PFAS continues to provide evidence of their toxicity. Observations and data from animal studies suggest associations between high exposure to specific PFASs and their health effects, such as increased cholesterol levels, thyroid and liver dysfunction, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and increased risk of certain cancers. Their presence has been associated with a variety of health effects, including immune system disturbances in children, reduced birth weight, elevated cholesterol levels and liver dysfunction.
Not all PFAS pose the same level of risk, but four compounds are of particular concern: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA and PFHxS, due to their toxicity and environmental persistence.
PFAS Regulations
In Europe on one side:
European regulations concerning PFAS are based on the 2001 Stockholm Convention, which has restricted the production and use of PFOS since 2009, and banned the import, export and production of PFOA since 2020. A similar ban is planned for PFHxS by 2023. France is working with its European partners to tighten restrictions on all PFASs under the REACH regulation. For installations classified for environmental protection (ICPE), an emission limit value (ELV) of 25 µg/l for PFOS in liquid discharges has been set from 2023, although other compounds are not yet subject to specific limits or systematic monitoring.
In France on the other:
The law aimed at banning PFAS in France provides for several stages. From 2026, certain products such as cosmetics, waxes and certain garments will be banned, while protective clothing will be exempt. The ban will extend to all textiles in 2030, except those for specific industrial uses. Products containing low traces of PFAS are exempt, and threshold concentrations will be set by decree. Food packaging and kitchen utensils have been excluded to await a European framework. The global ban for 2027 has been withdrawn, pending an EU-wide decision, led by the initiative of several countries under the REACH regulation.
The Interministerial Action Plan on PFAS aims to structure a coordinated and effective response to the challenges posed by these persistent chemicals. It focuses on developing measurement methods, strengthening monitoring, reducing emissions, and national and international cooperation to protect human health and the environment.
https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/documents/2024.04.05_Plan_PFAS.pdf
Conclusion
PFAS management is a major environmental and health issue. Regulatory efforts are underway to limit their impact, but many challenges remain. Collaboration between authorities, industry and researchers is crucial to finding viable solutions and reducing the ecological footprint of these persistent substances.
OSEIDO offers innovative technologies to help manufacturers, users and companies effectively eliminate PFAS from their processes and products. Our tailor-made solutions guarantee a significant reduction in the environmental impact of PFAS.
Please do not hesitate to contact us to find out how we can help you achieve sustainable development and regulatory compliance.
Sources :
DREAL
Forever Pollution Project
https://www.vie-publique.fr/loi/293656-pfas-polluants-eternels-proposition-de-loi-ecologiste#
