Chancellor rejects categorical ban on PFAS

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz rejects a rapid and comprehensive ban on PFAS and instead favours ‘pragmatic solutions’, which are welcomed by the chemical industry. During a visit to the Evonik site at the Marl Chemical Park in North Rhine-Westphalia, Scholz commented on the future handling of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). He emphasised the importance of finding approaches that support rather than hinder industrial development in Germany and rejected a general ban on these substances.

Scholz pointed out that the substances known as ‘perpetual chemicals’ are still indispensable for many processes in the modern chemical industry, particularly for numerous technologies in the field of renewable energies. There is currently no adequate substitute for these chemicals in most areas of application. Christian Kullmann, Chairman of the Executive Board of Evonik, praised the Chancellor's position as ‘clear support for the chemical industry’.

Due to their water-repellent and extremely heat-resistant properties, PFAS are used in numerous industrial products and everyday items, including waterproof textiles, non-stick cookware, detergents and cosmetics. At the same time, however, these substances are extremely persistent and non-biodegradable, which makes them a significant environmental problem. A ban on PFAS has therefore been under discussion at EU level for some time.