The lengthy process of restricting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Europe is entering its final stages. The opinion of the RAC (Risk Assessment Committee) and the draft opinion of the SEAC (Socio-Economic Analysis Committee) of ECHA have now been published, and the public consultation on the latter is open until 25 May 2026.
In a press release issued on 26 March 2026, ECHA (the European Chemicals Agency) sets the scene by stating that its two Committees “support EU-wide action with appropriate derogations and controls to address the growing and long‑lasting risks per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pose to people and the environment.”
RAC’s final opinion
The RAC adopted its final opinion on 2 March 2026, concluding that PFAS pose growing risks to people and the environment. They are highly persistent, remaining in the environment for long periods, travelling long distances, contaminating groundwater and soil, while some cause serious health issues, such as cancer and reproductive harm.
The Committee considers that regulatory measures currently in place are not sufficient to control their emissions and, therefore, further EU-wide regulatory action is needed to control these risks.
RAC thus recommends risk management measures to minimise emissions, including :
• site-specific PFAS management plans for manufacturers and industrial users, including monitoring of emissions,
• supply-chain communication on PFAS use,
• clear consumer labelling and instructions for safe use and disposal.
ECHA has also published sector-specific assessments for each sector affected by these measures. For the cosmetics sector, it states that it supports a full …
