perfluorinated hydrocarbons

Widespread remediation of soil and groundwater is hardly feasible in the case of PFAS contamination. Remediation measures are limited to localised releases and hotspots. In the case of widespread contamination, only protective and restrictive measures (e.g. regarding land use) are currently being considered; however, these do not contribute to reducing the contamination levels.

Plants can absorb PFAS from contaminated soil as well as groundwater and irrigation. This results in PFAS entering the food chain.

PFAS are still widely used in firefighting foams. Given their problematic properties, the UBA recommends using fluorine-free alternatives. Firefighting foams containing fluorine should only be used in the event of fires for which no effective alternative exists.

PFAS have been detected in soil and groundwater in many locations across Germany. The causes of this contamination are varied. The use of fire-fighting foams containing PFAS often results in PFAS contamination at sites belonging to the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) and airports.

Some PFAS of market relevance and with properties of concern are regulated by the European REACH Regulation on chemicals, the CLP Regulation on the classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals, or the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).

All affected stakeholders (associations and companies) as well as manufactures of alternatives are invited to complete the questionnaire for a restriction proposal on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) before October 17 2021. The restriction shall cover the manufacture, placing on the market and use of all PFASs in the EU.

Fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases, i.e. partially fluorinated hydrocarbons, fully fluorinated hydrocarbons, sulphur hexafluoride and nitrogen trifluoride) are used for purposes such as refrigerants, foam blowing agents in certain foam products, and insulating gas in switchgears. Some of these substances have an extremely high Global Warming Potential.

Fluorinated greenhouse gases and CFC are governed by international environmental treaties (Kyoto Protocol, Montreal Protocol) whose internationally, legally binding guidelines are implemented by European regulations and directives. Further legislation was enacted to achieve EU environmental protection goals. The body of European guidelines is complemented by national laws and regulations.