Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are ubiquitous in everyday products, could represent a colossal economic burden for the European Union by 2050. According to a report commissioned by the European Commission and published on Thursday, the total bill could climb to 1.7 trillion euros depending on the scale of the measures implemented.
The study compares four scenarios that incorporate both the potential health effects and the costs of soil and water resource remediation. The most expensive scenario involves extensive land decontamination as well as enhanced treatment of wastewater and drinking water to meet strict environmental standards for approximately twenty PFAS (Processed Food and Agriculture Organizations).
A ban that is still a long way off and full of uncertainties.
Conversely, the least expensive scenario, estimated at €330 billion, relies on a complete halt to the production and use of these substances, but without any additional deployment of specific water treatment measures. Brussels is indeed considering a ban on PFAS in several everyday consumer goods, from food packaging to clothing, while leaving the door open for exceptions in sectors deemed strategic.
But the legislative timetable remains unclear: the bill is not expected before the end of 2026 at the earliest. The Commission will first have to rely on two key opinions from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA): one expected in March on the risk assessment, the other planned for the end of 2026 on the socio-economic impact of a ban.
PFAS are used for their non-stick, waterproofing, or heat-resistant properties, particularly in cosmetics, cookware, and packaging. Their extreme persistence in the environment has earned them the nickname "forever pollutants" and fuels health concerns, with several studies suggesting increased risks of cancer, effects on fertility, and impacts on fetal development.
