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Press Release 29.01.2026
January the 29th, Brussels. This morning, the Europe Commission has confirmed what science has state for years : PFAS pollution carry an urge and growing cost. Surfrider calls for an ambitious universal PFAS restrictions and concrete action to prevent this widespread chemical pollution at source.
A new EU report on PFAS pollution reveals the cost of inaction: at least €440 billion by 2050
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (also known as PFAS) are manufactured chemicals that have been widely used for decades in a diverse range of consumer products and industrial uses due to their water, heat and grease resistant properties. They are highly persistent, mobile and bioaccumulate - they can stick around in the environment and our bodies long after their emission. Their contamination has been shown to be widespread and long-lasting.
Health impacts and sources of exposure are varied and far-reaching. Known adverse effects are linked with an increased risk of certain types of cancers, obesity, liver damage, fertility issues, birth defects, thyroid disease... PFAS also severely affect aquatic ecosystems as they are found in exceeding levels in a majority of rivers and coasts, becoming a potential driver of biodiversity loss.
The new EU Commission’s study finds that the current levels of pollution bear a huge cost on the environment and human health. The financial burden would amount to around €440 billion by 2050 if nothing is done. Furthermore, the figures are clear: the costs of cleaning up this pollution largely outweigh the costs of preventing it. The report especially highlights that treating contaminated water alone without cutting emissions could exceed €1 trillion. On the other hand, stopping the pollution at source by 2040 could save about €110 billion. Considering that the report only covers a small subset of thousands of PFAS, Surfrider warns that the actual costs are likely much higher.
Surfrider signals that these findings highlight the need for an urgent political reaction
The widespread presence of these forever chemicals in our environment is a real obstacle preventing the achievement of the EU’s zero pollution objectives for a toxic-free environment.
Lucille Labayle, Water Quality and Health Policy Officer for Surfrider Foundation Europe: “Today’s study confirms what the science has stated for years: PFAS pollution is a ticking time bomb, and citizens are being left to bear the financial, environmental and public-health costs. Every year of delay locks in deeper contamination, greater harm to ecosystems and communities, and serious damage to the economy. Prevention is not optional — it is the only viable path forward. Europe must act now towards a universal ban of PFAS and strengthen the existing legislation to tackle all sources of PFAS pollution.”
Surfrider, as one of the 118 signatories of the "Ban PFAS Manifesto", recalls the need to speed up the process to adopt an ambitious universal PFAS restrictions being assessed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). In parallel, additional action is also needed to ensure EU legislation across all sectors is equipped with robust measures to monitor and address this source of pollution while ensuring effective protection of populations.
Today's report must be an unequivocal signal that time is of the essence. There is an urgent need for action to reduce emissions and phase out PFAS uses. Early action and prevention at source are the cheapest and most effective instruments we have at our disposal.
We remain at the disposal of journalists for any request for information or interviews.
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