Breaking free from PFAS

Over the last years, PFAS has been on everyone’s lips.

PFAS, also known by the name “forever chemicals”, is a large complex group of synthetic chemicals.

They are durable and can make fabrics water and dirt-repellent, making them popular for outdoor clothes.

However, as you have probably heard many times, PFAS can be harmful and is hard to break down.

Which is why the subject of PFAS is high on the political agenda in both Denmark and the EU.

Last year, the Danish Environmental Protection Agency (DA: Miljøstyrelsen) released a campaign against PFAS targeted textile and leather retailers.

The EU has already banned many types of PFAS and expects to ban more than 10.000 PFAS within a couple of years.

Why is this relevant to me?

Although this campaign is targeting retailers, it affects your organization too.

Whether you are a retailer, brand, manufacturer, or importer, there is a responsibility to ensure that your products are not treated with PFAS.

This also applies for products from a wholesaler within the EU.

Even though they have a responsibility to make sure that whatever good they import to the EU complies with legislation, it does not leave you off the hook. 

It is your responsibility too.

What should I do from here on out?

It is important that you set demands to your suppliers that the products must not be treated with PFAS.

Fortunately, many alternatives and new PFAS-free substances and technologies are constantly being developed.

And if it all seems a bit overwhelming, the Danish Environmental Protection Agency has created a Danish 6-page quick guide on how to screen your product range for PFAS.

The guide also helps you start a dialogue with your suppliers about phasing out PFAS.

If you find it to be an overwhelming task, don’t worry.

We have experience working with chemicals, so do not hesitate to reach out for more information on the subject.