On 7 February 2023, a proposal for a European ban on PFAS has been published by ECHA. A ban in this context is also referred to as a restriction. The Netherlands worked on this proposal together with Denmark, Germany, Norway and Sweden.

The ultimate aim of the restriction proposal is a ban on the use of these substances to limit the risks to people and the environment. The proposal focuses on the entire group of PFAS substances in order to avoid one PFAS being replaced by another. Details of the proposed ban are published on the website of ECHA (News). Preparing a proposal is a long and intensive process. The preparation and submission of the proposal were just the first step. We would be happy to keep you informed about the progress of the restriction dossier via this website.

PFAS process; from intention to proposal to decision

There are three stages in the process of banning the use of PFAS. The first (completed) stage was to prepare and submit a restriction proposal. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (I&W) and RIVM were working together with the partner organisations of the other member states concerned. To that end, scientific literature was consulted and information was obtained at various times. 

The second stage starts with a public consultation is launched. Everyone can submit information or have an opinion about the proposal. This information will be processed. The next step is for the ECHA Scientific Committees (RAC and SEAC) to prepare their opinions. In the final stage, the European Commission drafts a proposal. The member states will decide whether or not to adopt this proposal. After the decision, the legislation enters into force.

More information

Have a look at our animation to learn more about the process of banning the use of PFAS.

Europees PFAS verbod_ van intentie tot besluitvorming

See the RIVM timeline for the ban on PFAS in Europe.

The ECHA website has a detailed description of this process with explanatory notes.