The staggering costs of PFAS Remediation
Abstract
This presentation summarizes the work of the Forever Lobbying Project and ZeroPM to ascertain the costs of PFAS remediation (https://foreverpollution.eu/). It was presented as part of the "Towards toxic-free Forum", organized by the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), Hazardous Waste Europe, and the Permanent Representation of France to the EU Event title: Addressing the staggering costs of PFAS pollution Background and objectives of the event:Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pollution poses a significant threat to public health, the environment, and the economy. The widespread contamination of water, soil, and food sources has led to increased costs related to remediation, healthcare, and litigation. Despite mounting scientific evidence and growing public concern, regulatory action remains slow, and affected communities continue to suffer. The polluter pays principle is barely applied, leaving society to bear the unaffordable health and economic costs of pollution.The Chemical Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) recognised that PFAS require special attention due to widespread soil and water contamination, including drinking water, in the EU and globally. Scientists warn that the increasing stock of chemical pollution, including PFAS, is surpassing the safe operating space of planetary boundaries, threatening human health and the environment.A universal PFAS restriction has been proposed by Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden and is currently undergoing scientific scrutiny to enable informed policymaker decisions.France has recently adopted one of the most ambitious laws on PFAS, which is pioneer in the application of the polluter pays principle.This event seeks to raise awareness among Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), European Commission representatives, and Member States on the severe economic and social costs of PFAS pollution. It aims to reinforce the urgency for the European Commission to finalise the action plan for PFAS phase out and improve polluters accountability and support mechanisms for affected communities.