Sweden proposes national PFAS ban

PFAS chemicals have been used to impart water, oil and stain resistance.

The Swedish Ministry of Climate and Enterprise has proposed a national ban on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a range of consumer products, including footwear and clothing. According to the ministry, this measure is intended to take effect ahead of planned European Union-wide restrictions on PFAS. While the proposal must still complete the legislative process, Sweden aims to introduce the ban before the end of 2028.

In addition to the prohibition applying to finished footwear and clothing, it would also affect products that consumers can buy to apply weather protection to shoes and clothes they own already. The ministry has said that certain exemptions could be considered, including for second-hand products and items containing a sufficient level of recycled materials.

PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals valued for properties such as water, oil and stain resistance, but concerns have been raised over their persistence in the environment and potential impacts on human health. If adopted, the legislation would place Sweden among the first European countries to introduce national restrictions on PFAS-containing consumer products before broader EU measures come into force.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 3 of the September 2026 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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