Stockholm Convention Targets Harmful PFAS Chemicals for 2026 Phase-Out

At its 12th Conference of the Parties (COP-12) in May 2025, the UN Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Review Committee recommended the global ban of long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs), their salts, and related compounds under Annex A of the Stockholm Convention.

This would initiate a worldwide phase-out of these substances, with only limited exemptions allowed.

Why the Ban?

PFCAs are synthetic chemicals widely used in:

• Non-stick cookware
• Water-repellent textiles
• Firefighting foams

They are:

• Persistent in the environment
• Capable of long-range transport
• Linked to serious health and ecological risks

What’s Covered?

The proposed ban includes:

• Long-chain PFCAs with the formula CnF₂n+1COOH (n = 8–20)
• Salts and precursors that degrade into these compounds

Exemptions (Under Strict Conditions)

Temporary use will be allowed for:

• Semiconductors for repairing combustion-engine vessels
• Vehicle replacement parts for discontinued models (until 2041 or end of service life)
• Other semiconductor uses (5-year exemption after the rule takes effect)

Effective Date

Under Article 22 of the Stockholm Convention, the amendment is expected to enter into force by May 2026, one year after formal notification by the depositary.

Next Steps

• A formal vote will be held at the Conference of the Parties
• An indicative substance list will guide national implementation
• Parties are urged to adopt safer alternatives and avoid shifting to other harmful PFAS

Global Impact

If adopted, this listing will represent a major step in the global fight against persistent organic pollutants, reinforcing international commitments to health and environmental protection.

Reference: Stockholm Convention COP-12