Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of highly persistent synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment, which is why they are called forever chemicals. Certain PFAS are used for battery manufacturing because they are essential to ensure battery safety, reliability, durability and performance. Viable alternatives are not yet available for a number of applications.

The EU is moving toward a broad, EU-wide restriction on all PFAS, with the process now in its final scientific and consultation stages.

EPBA - Consumer Batteries Europe recognises the need to address the environmental challenges associated with PFAS while also acknowledging their important role in battery technologies. An overhasty restriction could disrupt supply chains and impact the availability of consumer and other batteries. We are therefore in favour of establishing a realistic timeframe for the development of technically and economically feasible alternatives.