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The European Commission has proposed to revise the POPs Regulation (2019/1021) with a plan to lower the Unintentional Trace Contaminant (UTC) level for perfluorooctane sulphonic acid (PFOS) and its derivatives. The aim is to align with the latest scientific and technological developments while reinforcing the protection of the environment.

Earlier in last December, the European Commission initiated a public comment on this proposal. The amendment is expected to be effective in the first quarter of 2024.

Changes of UTC limit of PFOS in the EU

The European Commission has proposed amendments to the limits for Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and its derivatives under the Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, which is a part of the Union's commitments under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.

PFOS is one of the first perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) to be tightly regulated within the EU, with specific UTC limits for several years.

The Unintentional Trace Contaminant (UTC) level for PFOS and its salts is proposed to be set at 0.025 mg/kg. This aligns with the existing UTC level for Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). For PFOS-related compounds, the proposal recommends reducing the UTC in substances, mixtures, and articles to 1 mg/kg. This change is also in line with the standards set for PFOA.

Of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and its damages

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a man-made fluorinated organic compound that has been widely used in various industrial and consumer products. It is part of a larger group of chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFOS is recognized for its unique properties, such as resistance to heat, water, and oil. These characteristics have led to its use in a range of applications, including: firefighting foams; stain repellents; nonstick coatings on cookware; and certain industrial processes.

However, PFOS has raised significant environmental and health concerns due to its persistence and bioaccumulation potential. The long persistence poses long-term environmental risks in the following aspects:

Environmental Persistence: PFOS does not degrade in the environment, leading to its accumulation over time. This persistence poses long-term environmental risks;
Bioaccumulation: PFOS can accumulate in the bodies of living organisms, including humans. This accumulation can occur through the food chain, leading to higher concentrations in predatory species;
Health Risks: Exposure to PFOS has been associated with various health problems. Studies have linked PFOS exposure to developmental issues, liver and kidney damage, immune system disruption, and potential carcinogenic effects;
Water Contamination: PFOS can contaminate water sources, making it a concern for drinking water safety. The compound’s stability and solubility mean it can persist in water bodies and spread to distant locations.
Wildlife Impact: PFOS can affect wildlife, particularly aquatic organisms. It can lead to reproductive, developmental, and systemic effects in different species.

These amendments reflect the ongoing efforts to align the regulations with scientific progress and technical capabilities, ensuring enhanced protection for human health and the environment from the impacts of persistent organic pollutants.