A study undertaken by the European parliament’s Policy Department for Transformation, Innovation and Health, has recommended F-gases be excluded from restrictions on PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances).
The study, commissioned by the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE), found that F-gases were crucial enablers for the European Union’s global competitiveness.
The purpose of the study was to assess the industrial implications and importance of PFAS for the EU’s economic future.
It found PFAS essential for high-tech applications (semiconductors, medical devices, energy systems) and to support strategic sectors like defence and aviation.
The focus of the study was on six key fluoropolymers and F-gases used in aerospace, defence, green energy, and semiconductor sectors. It found substitutes were not feasible.
Restriction options currently under review could lead to job losses and other economic losses that could be substantial, the study said.
The solution is a balanced strategy including innovation, research into alternatives, and potential exclusions or strict conditions for critical uses, rather than outright bans across the board.
The focus should be on regulatory controls under existing F-gas regulations to ensure F-gases are excluded from any PFAS restrictions.
In January 2023 five EU member states submitted a broad restriction proposal under REACH to ban most PFAS uses.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is evaluating this proposal, with scientific committees (RAC & SEAC) assessing risks and socioeconomic impacts, including for specific uses like electronics and manufacturing.
The restriction aims to phase out most PFAS, allowing essential uses with strict conditions, with final decisions pending ECHA's scientific opinions and the European Commission's review.