Video PFAS English

In this video, Thijs de Kort speaks on behalf of Bureau REACH about the proposal to restrict the use of PFAS in Europe.

He explains what PFAS are and why they have been used for decades in textiles, packaging, electronics, and industry. Their unique properties — such as resistance to heat, cold, and corrosive substances — made them highly attractive. But these same properties also mean PFAS hardly break down, spread easily, and are harmful to both the environment and human health.

Research shows that almost all Dutch people have PFAS in their blood, with potential effects on the immune system, cholesterol levels, and even cancer risk. Removing PFAS from the environment is extremely difficult and costly, which is why prevention is key.

That is why the Netherlands, together with Germany, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, has submitted a restriction proposal to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This proposal has generated more than 5,600 stakeholder responses and over 100,000 pages of information. ECHA’s scientific committees are now assessing the dossier, with conclusions expected in spring 2026.

The goal: ban PFAS as quickly as possible where alternatives exist, and allow industry more time where they are not yet available — so that in the future, almost no PFAS end up in the environment.