PFAS pollution could cost EU nearly ~$521.4 bn by 2050: EC

PFAS pollution significantly impacts human health and the environment, resulting in considerable costs borne by all citizens. This becomes evident when individuals suffer illnesses from exposure, when contaminated water or soil requires expensive remediation, and when essential natural processes, such as pollination, are disrupted.

By using the latest data and an improved methodology, this study provides a conservative estimate of the monetary impact of PFAS pollution.

The estimated health costs only account for a handful of currently regulated PFAS substances, from the thousands that exist, and therefore provide a limited estimate compared to the actual costs of PFAS pollution, EC said in its study.

Since PFAS remains in human bodies and the environment for decades, even after emissions have ceased, early action is vital to reduce long-term health and environmental costs.

The study also identifies the populations most vulnerable to PFAS pollution: newborns, children, people living near contaminated sites, and workers at those sites.

The commission is committed to taking the necessary action to protect these groups but also to prevent possible wider societal consequences, while ensuring a balanced approach until alternatives to PFAS can be implemented in key industrial applications.

“Providing clarity on PFAS with bans for consumer uses is a top priority for both citizens and businesses. That is why this is an absolute priority for me to work on this and engage with all relevant stakeholders. Consumers are concerned, and rightly so. This study underlines the urgency to act,” Jessika Roswall, commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Economy, said.

The findings of the study will feed into the EU’s discussions on PFAS-related topics, including pollution remediation, reduction of emissions at source, monitoring, and research needs.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)