The UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs published their Policy Paper entitled: “PFAS Plan: Building a safer Future together” on February 3rd. The Foreword reads as follows: 

“Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called ‘forever chemicals’, represent one of the most pressing chemical challenges of our time. They are used throughout our everyday lives as their unique properties have brought significant benefits to society. They appear in non-stick frying pans in your kitchens and medical devices in our hospitals. They are used in clean energy technologies that power our industries and safety equipment that protects us from harm. Yet their persistence and widespread presence in our environment pose risks we cannot ignore. 

This is an important issue for the government to address. PFAS contamination threatens public health, wildlife and the quality of our natural environment. Acting now is essential to prevent irreversible harm and to ensure that our regulatory frameworks keep pace with scientific evidence. 

This plan provides a foundation for how we will act – decisively but proportionately – to manage risks. Our vision is to reduce and minimise the harmful effects of PFAS while transitioning to safer alternative substances. It reflects our commitment to protect public health and the environment while supporting innovation and economic growth.

Our approach is rooted in science and collaboration. We will strengthen understanding and awareness, tackle the sources of PFAS and how they move through the environment, and reduce ongoing exposure to the PFAS that are already out there. We will work in partnership across the UK, with devolved governments, industry, scientists, environmental groups and local communities. We will continue to lead internationally, contributing to global efforts to phase out harmful PFAS and share best practice. 

This is a long-term challenge, but through coordinated action we can ensure that we pass on to the next generations an environment that is better than the one we inherited. Together, we will protect our environment, safeguard public health, and build a cleaner, safer future.”

To read the full Policy Paper, click here.