PFAS in the textile industry
In favour of a sense of proportion - against a radical PFAS ban
The National Council and Council of States are discussing various proposals in connection with PFAS in the current autumn session. They are calling for either levies, reduction targets, declaration obligations or even bans. What roles do the so-called perpetual chemicals play in the textile and clothing industry, and what would be the consequences of a ban?
Behind the tongue-twisting name of "per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances" lies a whole group of synthetic chemicals. They are abbreviated to PFAS. Many industries have been using them for decades.
Their advantage: they are extremely stable and versatile. Their disadvantage: this is precisely why they are considered non-degradable - which is why they are also referred to as "eternal chemicals". Some of these substances are also considered toxic.
As practical as the chemicals are, they are also controversial. The EU already regulates individual PFASs and is currently preparing a comprehensive ban.
The countless properties make PFAS particularly popular in many textile applications.
Why PFAS are widely used in the industry
PFAS are found in numerous textiles. They not only impregnate shoes and fabrics against oil, water, alcohol and dirt. They also provide heat resistance, durability and protection.
This is why PFAS are particularly popular in many areas of application: in rain jackets, uniforms, shooting waistcoats, laboratory clothing, filters, membranes, awnings and conveyor belts.
The industry association is in favour of a sense of proportion and against a general ban on PFAS.
Ban would hit most of the industry hard
Suppliers of outdoor and leisure clothing have been working for several years to ban PFAS from their products. This is because there are already companies that offer substitute products. This is technically possible, especially for water repellence. Although the substitute products are still expensive, they are more ecological.
The situation is more difficult in the field of protective and medical technology. Here there is a lack of alternatives that fulfil the high level of protection required in the ISO standards for water, oil and dirt repellency.
The consequences of a ban would either have to be a significant reduction in the level of protection provided by the ISO standards, in which case a loss of safety and durability could not be ruled out. Or it would only be possible for manufacturers from countries without PFAS bans to fulfil the ISO standards.
Before the federal government deals with bans or restrictions, it should examine their consequences for the industry.
The industry association is in favour of a sense of proportion and against a general ban on PFAS. Regulations require a scientific basis. In this case, for example, in the context of an individual substance analysis. Only one chemical substance is assessed rather than the entire group of substances. In the case of PFAS, the properties of a specific PFAS would be assessed in order to then be regulated or authorised individually.
As ecological solutions from Swiss companies already exist for certain textiles such as those for home use or popular outdoor sports, a ban on water repellency would be perfectly feasible.
The discussion about PFAS shows how challenging the balance between environmental protection, safety and innovation is.
Consequences for competitiveness
However, before the federal government deals with bans or restrictions, it should examine the possible consequences. With a regulatory impact assessment, the authorities can systematically weigh up what effects the planned regulation would have on the industry - in particular on its competitiveness.
The discussion surrounding PFAS shows how challenging the balance between environmental protection, safety and innovation is. Sustainable solutions are emerging for leisure products. In safety-critical areas, however, the industry remains dependent on PFAS - at least until equivalent alternatives are found.
These members offer alternatives to PFAS:
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