The European Commission has introduced new measures under the REACH Regulation to enhance human health and environmental protection by restricting the use of undecafluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) and related substances. These per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent and mobile in water, posing unacceptable risks.

Key Details of the Restriction

The PFHxA restriction focuses on applications where risks are not adequately controlled, alternatives exist, and socio-economic costs are manageable compared to the benefits of protecting health and the environment. The ban will apply to:

• Consumer Textiles: Including rain jackets
• Food Packaging: Such as pizza boxes
• Consumer Products: Like waterproofing sprays
• Cosmetics: Including skincare products
• Firefighting Foams: Used for training and testing

Notably, the restriction does not cover applications in semiconductors, batteries, or fuel cells for green hydrogen.

This initiative is a significant move toward reducing PFAS emissions, particularly as PFHxA has often been used as a substitute for the already banned PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). The restriction is grounded in scientific assessments from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and has received approval from both the European Parliament and the Council.

Next Steps

The PFHxA restriction will take effect 20 days after publication in the Official Journal, with transitional periods ranging from 18 months to 5 years, allowing time for the adoption of safer alternatives.