The release of The Future of European Competitiveness by Mario Draghi on 9th September has stirred significant debate regarding the role of chemical regulations in the EU’s industrial future. At the center of this discussion is the potential impact of impending restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including fluoropolymers. The report's assertion that these regulations could threaten competitiveness and technological progress has drawn both support from industry groups and criticism from environmental advocates, highlighting the complexity of balancing innovation and public health.
Fluoropolymers: Essential for Clean Technologies
Draghi's report casts a spotlight on the potential impact of an EU REACH restriction on fluoropolymers, which are crucial for industries driving the green transition. The Fluoropolymers Product Group (FPG), part of Plastics Europe, has weighed in on this issue, emphasising the importance of fluoropolymers for clean technologies.
"The EU needs fluoropolymers for the future of clean technologies," stated the Fluoropolymers Product Group. They argue that these advanced materials are essential for clean technologies like batteries and electrolysers, with no viable alternatives currently available. FPG warns, "A broad ban on fluoropolymers risks stifling innovation and production, putting Europe’s sustainability and technological ambitions at risk." Their stance underscores the vital role fluoropolymers play in harsh chemical environments and high-temperature applications, making them indispensable in the ongoing efforts to decarbonise Europe's economy.
Regulatory Concerns and Industry Reaction
Draghi’s report suggests that upcoming restrictions on PFAS could pose challenges to the competitiveness of industries developing clean technologies. This perspective has been welcomed by PFAS producers and industry groups like FPG, who fear that a broad ban on these substances could slow down the development and implementation of crucial green technologies.
The FPG stresses that without fluoropolymers, many industries driving the green transition would face significant challenges. The lack of viable alternatives means that a restriction could hinder progress in key areas like battery production and hydrogen technologies, potentially undermining Europe's efforts to lead in sustainable innovation.
Environmental Health Risks: CHEM Trust's Response
While industry groups have expressed concerns about the impact of PFAS restrictions on innovation, environmental advocates are pushing back. CHEM Trust has criticised Draghi's report, accusing it of "scaremongering" about chemical safety regulation. They argue that the report misrepresents the regulatory process and the role of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
Draghi wrote that the EU "empowers ECHA to adapt limits and impose bans at any moment," a statement that CHEM Trust claims is misleading. "However, only the Commission is empowered to ban chemicals, after it has received the scientific opinions of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the support from the Member State committee (REACH, Titles VII and VIII). This process can take up to ten years." CHEM Trust contends that the report’s framing overstates the speed and power of regulatory action, potentially causing unwarranted concern among manufacturers.
The upcoming PFAS restriction is also a point of contention, with Draghi’s report suggesting it could affect "clean technologies," a statement that PFAS producers have welcomed. However, CHEM Trust and the Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) have raised alarms about the health consequences of PFAS pollution. They argue that the long-term health risks of these chemicals, including their links to cancer and other serious health issues, necessitate strict regulation despite the challenges it may pose to industry.
Finding Balance in Chemical Regulation
The ongoing debate surrounding Draghi’s report highlights the complex challenge of regulating chemicals like PFAS. While industry groups stress the need for materials like fluoropolymers in achieving Europe’s green goals, environmental organisations warn of the significant health and environmental risks associated with these substances.
The PFAS restriction, currently under review by ECHA, includes up to a 13.5-year transition period to allow for the continued development of alternatives. This timeline is designed to provide industries with the flexibility to adapt, without compromising the health and environmental protections that are at the core of these regulations.
As the EU navigates the future of chemical regulations, it must strike a balance that protects public health and the environment while supporting innovation and industrial competitiveness. The debate sparked by The Future of European Competitiveness makes it clear that finding this balance will be a critical task in shaping the future of Europe’s economy and its role in leading the global transition to sustainable technologies.
