Context

• The European Commission plans to propose a ban on the use of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in consumer products, while allowing exemptions for essential industrial applications.

PFAS

• Chemicals that resist grease, oil, water, and heat.
• They were first used in the 1940’s.
• Often referred to as "forever chemicals".
• Do not break down in the environment.

Common Uses

• Non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon coatings)
• Water- and stain-resistant fabrics
• Food packaging materials
• Firefighting foams
• Industrial applications (e.g.,Plastics, Electronics production, lubricants etc.)

Global Conventions related to Chemicals

• Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): Signed in 2001 and came into force in 2004.
• Minamata Convention on Mercury: Adopted in 2013 and entered into force in 2017.
• Basel Convention on Hazardous Wastes: Adopted in 1989 and entered into force in 1992
• The European Union's (EU) Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH): Came into force in 2007 that aims to protect human health and the environment from chemicals.

European Commission

• Established: 1958
• HQ: Brussels, Belgium
• President: Ursula von der Leyen
• Executive body of the European Union.
• Functions: Proposing new laws and policies, Monitoring their implementation, Managing the EU budget