The Fight Against PFAS: A Closer Look at U.S. Bans
by Meng Yan at 09:23 in Environmental, Packaging
Today, we delve into the pressing issue of PFAS, exploring their environmental impact, regulatory measures, and future implications in the United States. Join us as we uncover the complexities surrounding these chemicals and the efforts to address their impact on consumer products.
What is PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called "forever chemicals", are lurking in our everyday products, from textiles to food packaging. With increasing regulatory actions across the US, it's crucial to understand how we are exposed and what steps are being taken to mitigate the risks.
Daily Encounters: How Are We Exposed to PFAS?
Food Packaging: Foods packaged in material that contain PFAS can be as source of exposure.
Consumer Products: PFAS are used in many consumer products, including water-repellent clothing, non-stick cookware and paints. Using these products or accidentally swallowing residue or dust from these products can lead to exposure.
Recently passed PFAS related bans
Vermont's SB 025 PFAS Ban
Vermont recently passed a PFAS ban that prohibits manufacturers from making, selling, or distributing food packaging and textiles or textile articles to which PFAS are intentionally added in any amount in the state.
Connecticut's SB292 PFAS Ban
Connecticut recently passed a PFAS phase-out bill that will prohibit anyone from manufacturing or selling 11 products, including textiles, starting in July 2026 unless the product manufacturer notifies the department in writing in advance as required, and prohibits intentionally added PFAS textile products that are not marked with text or symbols approved by the department. It will be expanded to a complete ban on products, including textile furniture, containing intentionally added PFAS from January 2028.
Other State-Level Actions
Delaware has also recently introduced legislation that would begin developing regulations to phase out intentionally added PFAS products and packaging, but the bill has not yet specified when the legislation would be implemented if passed.
Federal Initiatives
The U.S. federal government has proposed a billthat would phase out all non-essential uses of PFAS over a decade. Food packaging and containers would be banned in the first year after approval. The law would take effect on the date of enactment.
Looking Ahead
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated two widely used PFAS chemicals, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as Superfund 1. This designation will enable investigation and cleanup of these harmful chemicals and ensure reporting of leaks, spills, and other release.
If you would like to know more about PFAS bans and how they might impact your company or business, please contact us to talk to one of our consultants.
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