Promoted content: Good regulation means trade-offs

It’s widely accepted that Europe’s desire for increased sustainability, alongside an ecologically and socially more responsible economy will, politically, require much compromise.

In democratic societies and systems, there will always be conflicts of interest. Whether it’s transport or energy, any change with good and meaningful intentions, will be extremely complex.

Things get especially complicated when it comes to the application of technologies, materials or production processes. Most tough regulatory interventions will have both positive and negative consequences. Anyone who demands major change must be prepared to accept the disadvantages… even if these impact Europe being a vital hub for much industry and innovation.

When it comes to the potential regulation of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, the UK must watch and learn from what is happening in the EU.

The European Union's proposals to regulate 10,000+ PFAS substances - of which several thousand are used in everyday products such as textiles, cosmetics, packaging and cookware – could have serious repercussions for European industry. Environmental associations are calling for a full, 100% ban, meaning the complete phase-out of the production and use of PFAS by 2030.