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EU restricts use of 'forever chemicals' in firefighting foams
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on October 3, 2025
2 min readLast updated: January 21, 2026
Global Banking and Finance Review
Company
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on October 3, 2025
2 min readLast updated: January 21, 2026
The EU is restricting PFAS in firefighting foams to reduce environmental and health risks, with varying transition periods for industries.
BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The European Commission said on Friday it was restricting the use of substances known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals", in firefighting foams, marking a step towards the EU's objective to minimise the use of PFAS in consumer goods.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated substances, do not break down in the environment, raising concerns about the consequences of them building up in ecosystems, drinking water and the human body.
The restriction will enter into force by the end of this month but there will be transition periods ranging from a few months for certain industries to 10 years depending on use.
The sale of portable fire extinguishers containing PFAS will be restricted after six months, while PFAS extinguishers used in training, testing, and by municipal fire services will be restricted after 18 months.
A 10-year transition is set for high-risk industrial sites covered by EU safety rules, such as those storing large amounts of flammable liquids.
"Around 60% of firefighting foams contain PFAS. This has led to many cases of contamination of soil and water, including drinking water. This is an important step forward to tackle PFAS pollution across Europe," EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall said.
(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that are resistant to water, grease, and stains. They are often referred to as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and human body.
The European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and managing the day-to-day operations of the EU.
A transition period is a designated timeframe during which changes are implemented gradually. In this context, it refers to the time allowed for industries to adapt to new regulations regarding PFAS.
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