PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have become a major concern in the city of Pierre-Bénite in France, where alarmingly high levels of these forever chemicals were discovered in the water, soil, and air. The local residents, led by Thierry Mounib, have been working to hold chemical companies accountable for the pollution. The French firm Arkema and the Japanese manufacturer Daikin are suspected of being responsible for the contamination. The Lyon metropolitan council has taken legal action against these companies and is moving forward with the “polluter pays” principle to hold them financially responsible for the damage caused.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that do not naturally break down in the environment, leading to their nickname as forever chemicals. These substances are highly resistant and are used in a variety of everyday products, such as food packaging, clothing, and electronic devices. Scientific studies have shown that PFAS can pose serious risks to human health, including links to various diseases and disorders such as cancer, cardiovascular issues, infertility, and immune system disorders. As a result, there is growing concern over the presence of PFAS in the environment and its implications for public health.
In response to the concerns surrounding PFAS, the European Union has taken steps to restrict certain types of PFAS for specific uses. A subgroup of PFAS, including PFHxA and its related substances, have been restricted for use in food packaging, cosmetics, and consumer textiles. However, only a few PFAS are currently banned at the EU level, prompting calls for more widespread restrictions on these harmful chemicals. Several European countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, have proposed a major restriction on PFAS under the EU’s chemicals regulation, REACH.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is currently evaluating the proposal put forth by these countries. Once the evaluation is complete, the ECHA will share its findings with the European Commission and the 27 member states, who will ultimately decide on the restriction of PFAS. The outcome of this decision could have significant implications for the future regulation of PFAS across Europe and potentially lead to a continent-wide ban on these harmful substances. The fight against PFAS pollution in Pierre-Bénite serves as a symbol for the larger struggle against forever chemicals in Europe and the importance of holding companies accountable for their environmental impact.
The residents of Pierre-Bénite are facing a new concern as the Daikin company resumes operations of a unit that produces and stores additive polymers for the automotive industry, some of which contain PFAS. Despite the halt in production for four months, the company has been authorized to extend its operations under new rules imposed by the state. The community continues to advocate for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent further contamination and protect the health and well-being of its residents. The ongoing battle against PFAS pollution in Pierre-Bénite highlights the importance of environmental awareness, advocacy, and regulation to address the growing threat of forever chemicals in our environment.
