The European Commission said on Friday it was restricting the use of substances known as PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in firefighting foams, marking a step towards the EU’s objective to minimize the use of PFAS in consumer goods.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated substances, do not break down in the environment, raising concerns about the consequences of them building up in ecosystems, drinking water and the human body.
The restriction will enter into force by the end of this month but there will be transition periods ranging from a few months for certain industries to 10 years depending on use.
Read more: EU Plans Ban on ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Consumer Products
The sale of portable fire extinguishers containing PFAS will be restricted after six months, while PFAS extinguishers used in training, testing, and by municipal fire services will be restricted after 18 months.
A 10-year transition is set for high-risk industrial sites covered by EU safety rules, such as those storing large amounts of flammable liquids.
“Around 60% of firefighting foams contain PFAS. This has led to many cases of contamination of soil and water, including drinking water. This is an important step forward to tackle PFAS pollution across Europe,” EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall said.
(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
Topics Europe
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
Are ‘Moderate’ Hurricanes Getting Squeezed Out of the Atlantic? 
Electric Bills in Coal Country West Virginia Now Top Mortgage Payments 
Four Georgia Troopers Fired in Vehicle Pursuit-Insurance Scheme 
State High Court Weighs in on Woman Taken for Organ Donation But Was Still Alive 
