France’s PFAS Ban: A Breakthrough Against “Forever Chemicals”?

France has enacted a landmark law banning PFAS, “forever chemicals” linked to cancer and immune harm, in cosmetics, textiles, and ski waxes starting January 2026, with a full textile ban by 2030.

The law also introduces a tax on companies polluting PFAS and strengthens drinking water monitoring. While protective gear for military and firefighters is exempt, the ban marks a major step in reducing toxic chemical exposure and environmental contamination.

France joins Denmark as a European leader pushing for safer alternatives and stricter chemical regulations.

The overall picture, however, remains passable, and much needs to be done to reduce the weight of industrial interest in public health policies and to ensure more transparency in the donations to political parties involved.