EurEau fully endorses the call from a group of 50 MEPs for an urgent ban on PFAS pesticides to protect public health and water resources.

In a letter sent on 05.03.25, MEPs highlight that the “continued use of PFAS pesticides not only endangers public health but also undermines the EU's environmental commitments.”

Known as ‘forever chemicals,’ PFAS are present in our food, air, water and everyday products. Their persistence, mobility, and toxicity create far-reaching challenges for Europe’s water services. Currently, 34 PFAS pesticides are approved for use in the EU. These substances break down into trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a highly persistent and harmful compound that accumulates in the environment, water, and even in humans.

EurEau published its narrative paper - PFAS Phase Out: A Prerequisite for a Water Resilient Europe – earlier this year. In it, we highlight the continued threat that PFAS pose to human health and the environment.

Additional treatment technologies are needed to remove PFAS chemicals from the water cycle, but they are costly and energy-intensive. End-of-pipe treatment isn’t enough; preventing them from entering the water cycle in the first place is the most sustainable action.

The European Commission must act now to protect water resources and public health.