French water regulations tighten and bans PFAS products
The French National Assembly passed a new law on February 20, 2025, banning the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in textiles, cosmetics and ski wax by 2026. A more comprehensive ban on textiles is planned for 2030. In addition, the regulation imposes penalties on industrial violators and requires enhanced monitoring of PFAS in drinking water. Manufacturers, importers and the entire supply chain will be directly affected by this move. It underscores France's commitment to reducing chemical pollution and enforcing stricter environmental regulations.
What are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)?
Fluorine atoms joined to carbon chains are found in a broad class of synthetic compounds known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Because of their extreme resistance to decomposition in both the environment and the human body, these chemicals are frequently referred to as "forever chemicals" and are hence persistent.
What are PFAS used in?
PFAS are used in many consumer products and industrial applications for their water-, oil-, and stain-resistant properties. The most common uses include:
Non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon)
Water- and stain-resistant textiles (e.g., carpets, clothing)
Water repellents
Firefighting foams (particularly aqueous film-forming foam, AFFF)
Food packaging (e.g., microwave popcorn bags, fast food packaging)
Environmental and Health Concerns
PFAS are extremely persistent, meaning they don’t break down in the environment or in human bodies. They build up in soil, water, and living things throughout time. Widespread pollution has resulted from their stability and environmental persistence.
The following are a few health issues linked to PFAS: Hormonal disruption:
PFAS have been implicated in modifying the thyroid and other endocrine systems.
Cancer risk: Research has indicated a higher chance of developing some types of cancer, including testicular and kidney cancer.
Effects on the immune system: exposure to PFAS may impair immunity, leaving people more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.
Developmental problems: Pregnancy-related exposure to PFAS has been linked in certain studies to low birth weight and newborn developmental impairments.
PFAS Restrictions
Consumer Product Bans
PFAS will be banned in the following products starting January 1, 2026:
Cosmetics Ski waxes Waterproof clothing, footwear and waterproof products (excluding defence and emergency services protective gear)
PFAS will be banned in all textiles except those essential to national security or for industrial purposes starting January 1, 2030.
Industrial discharges and water quality control
A five-year plan calls for the phase-out of industrial discharges containing PFAS into water by 2030.
Companies releasing PFAS into water will be taxed €100 per 100 grams.
Mandatory monitoring of PFAS in drinking water will be expanded and publicly reported annually.
A statewide PFAS contamination map will be created and updated annually.
The government will propose updated drinking water standards within a year.
