Sweden moves to ban ‘forever chemicals’ in consumer products from 2028 as EU-wide ban remains in limbo
Sweden announced plans to ban per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as 'forever chemicals,' in consumer products such as clothing and kitchenware starting in 2028. Environment Minister Romina Pourmokhtari stated Sweden will not wait while PFAS continue to spread in homes, nature, and human bodies. The move comes as EU-wide restrictions remain stalled, though the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published a scientific opinion in March 2026 recommending broad EU restrictions. The ban follows a 2023 joint proposal by Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. ECHA's public consultation received over 5,600 submissions, one of the highest volumes ever, with significant input from chemical corporations and industry groups. Major companies like Chemours, 3M, and Solvay, along with trade bodies Cefic and PlasticsEurope, increased their EU lobbying budgets following the proposal. A final ECHA opinion is expected by end of 2026, after which the European Commission and member states will decide on EU-wide action.
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