The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed significant new use rules (SNUR) for 35 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).

According to SNUR, if the chemicals which are to be manufactured or imported falls under the PFAS category, the manufacturer must provide notification before 90 days to EPA known as pre-manufacture notice (PMN). This notification initiates EPAs evaluation of the use of the chemical substance or mixture. On review, EPA issued TSCA section 5(e) orders for the 35 PFAS:

• Due to the lack of information in the notice to make a reasoned evaluation of health and environmental effects
• Substantial human exposure to the substance or substance in substantial quantities entering the environment.

The new uses could significantly increase the exposure of the substances on both humans and the environment, hence EPA requires a notification time when it can evaluate and manage risks. Thus, SNUR plays an important role in the PFAS’ strategic roadmap.