The EU’s process to limit PFAS underwent significant changes in August 2025. On 20 August, ECHA released an updated restriction proposal from five national agencies, including eight new sectors—such as medical, military, and industrial uses—in its review, and introduced new exemptions, some of which are limited in time and others are permanent. Importantly, PFAS manufacturing could continue under strict emissions standards, and PFAS-containing products made with recycled materials would stay on the market. The restriction aims to reduce PFAS emissions by over 80% by 2055.
However, just a week later, on 27 August, ECHA announced it would not evaluate the eight additional sectors to keep its expert review process on schedule. The decision drew criticism: environmental groups like the European Environmental Bureau argued this could weaken the process, while the European water sector (EurEau) warned that extensive derogations risk undermining water resilience and food security. In contrast, the Fluoropolymers Product Group welcomed the exemptions and called for even broader exclusions for its products.
In a separate ruling on 1 August, the European Court of Justice upheld a decision to annul the classification of titanium dioxide as a suspected carcinogen, citing a flawed risk assessment by ECHA. While industry groups celebrated the decision as a precedent for more rigorous chemical assessments, public health advocates criticized the ruling, warning that it removes vital labelling and worker protection measures.
For additional information, please check:
ECJ, press release on the case (1 Aug. 2025)Le Monde,
article on the case (18 Aug. 2025)Chemical Watch,
article on the case (7 Aug. 2025)
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