EU Considers PFAS Ban as Toxic Exposure Rises in Canada

Growing Concern Over Toxic “Forever Chemicals” in Europe

Toxic “forever chemicals,” known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are raising alarm across Europe. These synthetic compounds, which do not break down easily in the environment, have been detected in blood, food, and water at levels that could pose serious health risks. Their widespread presence has led to growing public concern and increased pressure on governments to take action.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are a large group of more than 10,000 human-made chemicals. They are commonly used in products such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, and waterproof clothing due to their ability to resist heat, water, and oil. While these properties make them useful, exposure to even small amounts over time has been linked to several health issues, including liver damage, high cholesterol, weakened immune systems, low birth weights, and certain types of cancer.

PFAS in Our Blood

Studies have shown that PFAS can be found in human blood. The European Environment Agency (EEA) analyzed data from nine countries and found that 14.3% of teenagers had PFAS levels above acceptable limits. The percentage varied widely between countries, with Spain reporting just 1.3% and France showing 23.8%.

France Takes Strong Action

France has introduced some of the strictest regulations in Europe to tackle PFAS. A new law, set to take effect in 2026, will ban the use of these chemicals in cosmetics, clothing, shoes, and ski waxes. A broader ban on PFAS in textiles is expected by 2030. Additionally, the French government has launched an online map showing PFAS levels in drinking water nationwide. In some areas, like Meuse and Ardennes, tap water has been banned due to unsafe levels.

Belgium Faces Two Major PFAS Crises

Belgium has experienced two major PFAS-related incidents. In Wallonia, public outrage erupted after it was revealed that warnings about contamination were ignored for years. A U.S. military base in Chièvres was found to have contaminated local water supplies with PFAS from firefighting foam. Locals were left unaware for years, while U.S. personnel were advised to drink bottled water. Large-scale blood testing was later conducted in the region, with nearly 1,300 people tested. Meanwhile, in Flanders, chemical company 3M reached a €571-million settlement after pollution from its factory near Antwerp was linked to PFAS contamination.

Italy Jails Executives for PFAS Pollution

In Italy, a court sentenced executives from a chemical plant to up to 17 years in prison for polluting water with PFAS. The Miteni plant in Trissino contaminated nearly 200 square kilometers of drinking water and soil. Eleven executives from companies including Japan’s Mitsubishi and Luxembourg-based ICIG were convicted for their role in the pollution.

Netherlands: Everyone Has PFAS in Their Blood

A nationwide study in the Netherlands found PFAS in all 1,500 blood samples tested, with nearly every case exceeding safety limits. The Dutch National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) concluded that there is no way to completely avoid contact with PFAS, as they are present in soil, food, and drinking water throughout the country.

EU Takes Steps Toward a Ban

In 2023, several EU countries proposed a blanket ban on all PFAS to the European Chemicals Agency. The proposal is under review and is expected to be finalized by 2026. The European Commission has stated its commitment to minimizing PFAS emissions and considering a ban on consumer uses. However, if alternatives cannot be found for critical industrial applications, some use may still be allowed. The EU also plans to establish a monitoring framework to track PFAS pollution across the region.

Resistance to a Full Ban

Not all EU countries support a complete ban on PFAS. Some states, like Baden-Württemberg and Schleswig-Holstein, argue that a ban would harm the chemical industry and lead to economic losses. They warn that stringent regulations could cause significant disruptions to production and innovation.

Countries with Lower Exposure

Some EU countries report lower PFAS exposure. Slovenia, for example, has minimal industrial use of PFAS and has found only trace amounts of contamination in past tests. However, some banned PFAS chemicals were still found in everyday products. Bulgaria also reported low levels of PFAS in water sources. Despite this, additional findings suggest that PFAS are present in rivers and other water bodies.

As the EU considers a potential ban, the full impact of PFAS on human health and the environment is becoming clearer. With ongoing efforts to regulate and monitor these chemicals, the challenge remains to balance public health protection with economic and industrial concerns.