Banning the production and use of PFAS and products containing them
20.9.2022
Question for written answer E-003118/2022
to the Commission
Rule 138
Linea Søgaard-Lidell (Renew)
The production and use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and products containing PFAS have caused regular environmental and health scandals. The Nordic Council has stated that between 750 and 1 200 deaths can be attributed to exposure to PFAS every year in the Nordic countries. PFAS take decades – or longer – to break down and are therefore known as ‘forever chemicals’. Their effects are so serious for our future and our health that we cannot afford to wait for them to be banned.
In the light of the foregoing:
- 1.How can the Commission justify the fact that the prospects for an EU ban on these harmful PFAS are so distant, and, given the evidence of the increasing impact that these ‘forever chemicals’ are having and the harm they are causing throughout the Member States, will the Commission consider bringing in an emergency ban on PFAS in the EU?
- 2.Can the Commission guarantee, with the precautionary principle in mind, that the current limit values for PFAS are sufficient to protect human health and the environment in Europe, and will the Commission provide evidence to show that the current limit values are sufficient?
- 3.Given the high risks that these substances pose to health and the environment, does the Commission intend to make efforts to speed up the phasing-in of restrictions on the use of PFAS in the Member States, either individually, in specific groups or collectively at EU level?
Last updated: 26 September 2022