This week’s Chemical Watch news podcast sees North America reporter Julia John in Washington, DC, and Europe reporter Kathryn Carlson in Brussels join global managing editor Kate Lowe to discuss the latest developments.
Our subjects for discussion in this episode reflect the growing pressure on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in a number of jurisdictions across the globe.
We start with the latest US state-level moves to restrict the use of PFASs – including the signing into law in Vermont of a bill prohibiting certain substance classes in a broad range of products.
But first, let's start with Europe where fast food giants, including McDonald’s and KFC, are facing renewed calls to rapidly phase out their use of PFASs in takeaway food packaging, after an NGO investigation found widespread intentional use in the EU.
The issue is particularly high on the European agenda thanks to the EU chemicals strategy where a PFAS action plan, with restrictions on use in products, is scheduled for 2021-22 under the sustainable products initiative – also a REACH restriction for all non-essential uses is planned for 2022-24.
The European Commission is also undertaking a revision of food contact materials legislation which NGOs hope will harmonise rules for food packaging made of different materials.