France Adopts Groundbreaking Law to Restrict 'Forever Chemicals' in Consumer Products

The legislation bans PFAS in cosmetics, textiles, and ski wax by 2026, sparking industrial concerns and setting a European precedent.

The French Parliament has passed a law banning the manufacture, import, and sale of PFAS-containing cosmetics, textiles, and ski wax starting January 2026.
PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' persist in the environment and human body, posing serious health risks such as cancer and fertility issues.
The law includes a tax on industrial PFAS emissions, requiring companies to pay €100 per 100 grams of pollutants released to fund cleanup efforts.
Critics warn the legislation could harm French industries, particularly textiles and energy, by imposing costs and creating competitive disadvantages against imports.
France's measures go beyond EU regulations, positioning it as a leader in addressing PFAS pollution but raising concerns about economic and industrial impacts.