PFAS Regulation Update: What Businesses Need to Know

Understanding PFAS and Why They Matter

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse family of over 10,000 synthetic chemicals found in a wide range of everyday consumer and manufacturing products. They are used because of their desirable properties including durability. These properties stem from the presence of strong carbon-fluorine bonds within the compounds. This strong bond inherently means that PFAS do not easily degrade in the environment, leading to the nickname “forever chemicals” meaning they persist for an unknown amount of time and can bioaccumulate.

 

Evolving PFAS Regulations in the EU

Regulatory frameworks around PFAS are developing and being updated as more information becomes available meaning its tricky for businesses to keep a track of how their products might be affected.

The Draft PFAS Restriction Proposal

ECHA has announced a second round of public consultation on the restriction of PFAS within the EU. The initial consultation followed the release of a draft PFAS restriction proposal in 2023, prepared by a number of EU authorities, and consultation comments on this document numbered over 5000.

The 2025 proposal – the Background Document

The updated PFAS proposal, referred to as the background Document, was re-issued in August 2025 and focuses on 8 specific industries as well as alternatives to a full ban of PFAS substances.

Next Steps for Stakeholders

The announced public consultation will go ahead after the March 2026 meeting of the Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) where the re-issued proposal will be reviewed. The Committee will publish a draft opinion on which stakeholders will be invited to comment via a survey questionnaire. Stakeholders in this case are the full range of those who may be impacted by the restrictions – from the public through to industry groups and research facilities. To assist commenting, ECHA will be preparing an online briefing and consultation guide before the March SEAC meeting.

Divergence Between EU and UK PFAS Regulations

Due to divergence in regulations post-Brexit, restrictions in GB differ from those in the EU. PFAS fall under the jurisdiction of the UK HSE via the UK REACH SVHC list, UK REACH and the POPs regulation. There are currently public consultations ongoing regarding PFAS use in firefighting foams, but it remains unclear if UK HSE will follow the EU’s lead on potential widespread restrictions.

 

Key Takeaways on PFAS Regulation

  • PFAS are highly persistent “forever chemicals,” creating global regulatory challenges.
  • The EU’s re-issued 2025 proposal narrows scope to 8 industries and alternatives.
  • A second consultation will follow the March 2026 SEAC review.
  • Businesses should prepare for divergence between EU and UK requirements.
  • Stakeholder engagement in upcoming consultations will be critical.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are PFAS and why are they called “forever chemicals”?
PFAS are synthetic compounds with strong carbon–fluorine bonds, making them highly durable and resistant to breakdown in the environment.

What is the EU’s current position on PFAS?
The EU is moving forward with restrictions. A re-issued proposal (August 2025) targets 8 industries and considers alternatives to a full ban.

When is the next PFAS consultation in the EU?
The next consultation will follow the March 2026 SEAC meeting, after the Committee issues its draft opinion.

How do UK regulations differ from the EU?
In the UK, PFAS are managed under UK REACH, SVHC and POPs regulation. Current consultations focus on firefighting foams, with no clear plan on wider restrictions yet.