In 1987, the world collectively decided to ban chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) after discovering their devastating impact on the ozone layer. Despite the industry’s initial concerns about the economic implications, the ban was successful, and the ozone layer is now on the road to recovery. The ongoing debate around “forever chemicals” such as PFAS calls for a similar shift, but the outcome is uncertain without proactive adaptation by the chemical industry.
A new challenge: PFAS
In March 2023, Europe initiated a public consultation on a groundbreaking proposal to phase out up to 10,000 PFAS substances. These chemicals, characterized by chains of linked carbon and fluorine atoms, are found in a multitude of applications including cookware, cosmetics, batteries, semiconductors, and medical devices. PFAS are prized for their exceptional resistance to oil, water, and heat.
However, scientists are growing increasingly concerned about the health risks associated with these chemicals. PFAS persist in the environment and human organs and are increasingly linked to cancers and other health problems. The US Environmental Protection Agency has even warned that near-zero levels of PFAS could be dangerous. A previous blog post provides a detailed overview of the increasing regulation of PFAS due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects, which highlights the growing concern around these chemicals.
Industry concerns
The international chemical industry is pushing back against Europe’s proposal, arguing that it threatens global growth, hinders the transition to green technology, and puts thousands of jobs at risk. In some instances, alternatives to PFAS are either unavailable or expensive to develop. Some law firms are even advising their chemical clients to increase lobbying efforts to prevent the proposal from being adopted.
This resistance may be short-sighted, as the global trend is moving against PFAS. European regulators are considering broader restrictions, while PFAS restrictions are growing in the US. Legal action related to PFAS is also on the rise.
Companies like 3M, one of the world’s largest PFAS producers, recognize the risks and have committed to discontinuing the production and use of PFAS by the end of 2025. Investors are also concerned, with asset managers overseeing $8 trillion demanding that persistent chemicals be phased out.
Some companies have developed action plans to address the issue, but some are continuing to wait and watch on these problematic chemicals. As an example, Chemours (spun out of Du Pont) is planning to expand its PFAS facility in Fayetteville, NC.
Striking the right balance
Exemptions could be granted for critical industries like chipmaking, where high specifications make alternatives challenging to find. However, these exemptions should be paired with stricter regulations on use and disposal. For non-essential applications like cosmetics and dental floss, there’s less justification for continued PFAS use.
Without regulatory pressure, it’s unlikely that companies will be motivated to find alternatives. PFAS toxicity has been known for decades, but they remain in use and continue to accumulate in the environment.
Though a potential EU ban is still years away and proposals may be revised, the chemical industry must engage more actively with emerging concerns to achieve the best outcome. This includes greater transparency about PFAS products, independently verified safety assessments, and investment in alternatives. Replacing PFAS will be more challenging than replacing CFCs, but history shows that the industry is capable of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Those who adapt successfully stand to gain significant business opportunities.
There are several promising alternatives to PFAS for specific applications. Examples include fluorine-free alternatives for firefighting foams, green surfactants derived from renewable resources, silicone-based materials for non-stick and stain-resistant applications, and bio-based polymers for water resistance and durability. Ceramic coatings offer non-stick properties for cookware, and hydrocarbon-based waxes can replace PFAS in ski wax. The effectiveness of these alternatives depends on the application, and further research and collaboration between industry, researchers, and regulators are essential to ensure their safety and efficacy.
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Manuel Diaz