Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” have been a growing global concern due to their persistence in the environment and their potential health risks. While the European Union (EU) has taken proactive steps to regulate these substances, including proposing a ban on non-essential uses, the UK government has faced criticism from scientists and environmentalists for its slower and less comprehensive approach. This disparity has raised questions about the UK’s commitment to addressing this pressing issue.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They Concerning?
PFAS are a group of over 10,000 synthetic chemicals widely used for their water- and grease-resistant properties in products such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foams, and textiles. The term “forever chemicals” comes from their extreme persistence in the environment and resistance to degradation.
Although only a few PFAS have been extensively studied, the two most well-known — perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) — have been linked to serious health risks, including cancers, immune system suppression, hormone disruption, and developmental issues. Alarmingly, PFAS are now found in the blood of nearly every human on Earth, illustrating their widespread contamination.
The EU’s Proactive Approach
In response to growing evidence of harm, the EU has proposed regulating PFAS as a single class, emphasizing their shared characteristic of persistence rather than assessing individual toxicity. Five EU member states have recommended a group ban on non-essential uses, allowing exceptions only for critical applications. This hazard-based approach aims to prevent further environmental and health damage by curbing the release of these chemicals.
The UK’s Lagging Policies
In contrast, the UK government has opted not to adopt the broader Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of PFAS, which includes fluoropolymers and other persistent compounds. Instead, it has chosen to create its own subcategories, a move that many experts believe dilutes the urgency and comprehensiveness of regulatory action.
Scientists have criticized this risk-based approach, arguing that it fails to address the cumulative impact of releasing persistent chemicals into the environment. Unlike the EU’s precautionary stance, the UK’s strategy appears reactive, focusing on managing known risks rather than preventing unknown but potentially catastrophic consequences.
About the UK’s Stance
Prof Ian Cousins, a leading expert on PFAS, has expressed frustration with the UK government’s position. He contends that the high environmental persistence of all PFAS makes them inherently problematic, regardless of their individual toxicities. Cousins has also voiced concern that industry pressure may be influencing the UK’s reluctance to regulate fluoropolymers and other PFAS more stringently.
Prof Crispin Halsall from Lancaster University has questioned whether Defra’s decision to create its own PFAS groupings is based on science or political convenience. Similarly, Prof Patrick Byrne from Liverpool John Moores University has criticized the government for underestimating the scale of PFAS pollution, pointing out that current monitoring efforts capture only a fraction of the problem.
Health and Environmental Impacts of PFAS
Exposure to PFAS occurs primarily through contaminated water, food, and consumer products. In the UK, drinking water sources have been found to contain PFAS, with concentrations exceeding safe limits established in other countries. These chemicals accumulate in the body over time, leading to chronic exposure and an increased risk of health problems.
From an environmental perspective, PFAS contamination affects soil, water bodies, and wildlife, creating a toxic cycle that is difficult to break. The chemicals’ resistance to degradation means that once released, they persist for decades, if not centuries, posing a long-term threat to ecosystems.
Calls for Immediate Action
Environmentalists and scientists have urged the UK government to align its policies with the EU and adopt stricter measures to tackle PFAS. Dr. David Megson from Manchester Metropolitan University has criticized Defra’s “wait-and-see” approach, arguing that the evidence already points to an urgent need for action. Similarly, Dr. Shubhi Sharma from the charity Chem has described the lack of urgency as “astounding,” emphasizing that every delay exacerbates the problem.
Industry Resistance and Economic Considerations
The chemical industry has lobbied against comprehensive PFAS regulations, citing the high costs of developing alternatives. However, many experts argue that stricter regulations could drive innovation and create opportunities for sustainable growth. As Prof Halsall points out, phasing out PFAS would push the industry to develop safer and more environmentally friendly chemicals, aligning with broader economic and environmental goals.
Defra’s Response and Future Prospects
Defra has stated that it is committed to protecting the environment from chemical risks and is reviewing its environmental improvement plan to address PFAS. However, the department’s emphasis on further evidence-gathering has been criticized as a delaying tactic, given the overwhelming scientific consensus on the need for immediate action.
The government’s decision not to lower PFAS limits in drinking water to match those in Europe and the US has also drawn criticism. Such limits are a crucial step in protecting public health, particularly given the widespread contamination of water sources.
The UK’s current approach to PFAS regulation falls short of the comprehensive measures needed to address the scale of the problem. By failing to match the EU’s proactive stance, the UK risks lagging behind in protecting its citizens and environment from the harmful impacts of forever chemicals. Scientists and environmental advocates are calling for the government to adopt a hazard-based approach, regulate PFAS as a single class, and prioritize public health over industrial interests.
The persistence and toxicity of PFAS make them a global challenge that requires coordinated and decisive action. As the UK reviews its policies, aligning with international best practices will be essential to safeguard future generations from this growing chemical crisis.
