Safe and sustainable alternatives could reduce use of PFAS in textiles and enhance reuse and recycling

European Environment Agency | September 17, 2024

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"Textiles are one of the biggest sources of PFAS pollution in Europe. Polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), a group of highly persistent chemicals, are widely used in many textile-based products including clothing, carpets and other household goods for waterproofing, oil, dirt and heat protection, and increased durability.

However, they also persist over time and may accumulate in humans, animals and the environment, increasing the risk of serious health and environmental impacts.

The EEA briefing offers an overview on how the ongoing process to restrict the use of PFAS in the EU could have an impact on the possibility to reuse and recycle used textiles. It is based on a larger report commissioned for the EEA and it complements work done by other EU agencies, including the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)."