France Makes Historic Move to Ban PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Consumer Goods
In a groundbreaking decision, the French Parliament recently passed a law targeting the restriction of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” This legislation aims to limit the sale and production of various consumer products, including cosmetics, most clothing, and ski wax, that contain these harmful substances. The bill, set to take effect in January 2026, seeks to eliminate the import, sale, and production of any PFAS-containing items that have viable alternatives, with the exception of certain industrial textiles deemed essential.
The road to this momentous law has been paved with advocacy efforts from diverse stakeholders, including members of parliament, non-governmental organizations, scientists, and investigative journalists. One of the key drivers behind the bill, French environmentalist Nicolas Thierry, a Green Party MP and the legislation’s rapporteur, emphasized the collaborative efforts that brought the issue of PFAS to the forefront of public discourse in France. Thanks to this collective mobilization, France now stands as a global leader with one of the most ambitious laws targeting PFAS.
The Dangers of PFAS: A Global Concern
PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in various consumer products to impart waterproof, nonstick, and stain-resistant properties. Despite their utility, these chemicals have been linked to a myriad of health issues, prompting widespread concern. Commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS have permeated the environment, contaminating water sources, food supplies, and even human bodies across the globe. From remote mountain peaks to bustling urban centers, the pervasive presence of PFAS underscores the urgent need for regulatory action to curb their detrimental effects.
The health implications of chronic PFAS exposure are alarming, with studies linking these chemicals to elevated cholesterol levels, compromised immune function, liver damage, and increased cancer risks. Recognizing the severity of the situation, health and environmental organizations across Europe recently called upon European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to address the PFAS crisis as part of the region’s broader environmental initiatives. Under the European Green Deal’s “zero pollution” strategy, efforts to mitigate PFAS contamination are crucial in safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.
France’s Bold Steps Towards Regulation
The passage of France’s new law marks a significant milestone in the global fight against PFAS, signaling a proactive approach to protecting citizens from exposure to hazardous chemicals. While the legislation initially included provisions to ban non-stick cookware, lobbying efforts by industry stakeholders led to their exclusion from the final draft. Despite this setback, the regulation mandates regular monitoring of drinking water for PFAS contamination, a crucial step in safeguarding public health.
Looking ahead, the implementation of EU regulations requiring member states to test drinking water for PFAS is a positive development in advancing environmental protections. However, the absence of a comprehensive ban on PFAS use in consumer products underscores the need for coordinated action at the EU level. As Sandra Bell, a policy and advocacy advisor at CHEM Trust, highlights, a unified approach to restricting PFAS across all member states is essential in ensuring broad protection for European citizens.
As the world grapples with the pervasive threat of PFAS contamination, France’s decisive stance on banning these “forever chemicals” in consumer goods sets a promising precedent for global environmental governance. By prioritizing public health and environmental sustainability, policymakers and stakeholders alike can work together to address the pressing challenges posed by PFAS and pave the way for a cleaner, safer future for all.
