Overview
PFAS are a large family of human-made chemicals that do not break down in the environment, which is why they picked up the nickname "forever chemicals". They are prized for being water-, grease- and heat-resistant, and they are now a top regulatory target.
PFAS aren't a single substance. The family runs to thousands of related chemicals. Because of that scale, regulators are shifting away from banning them one at a time toward restricting the whole class at once.
Why they matter
The regulatory picture
These controls sit across POP and REACH, and internationally under the Stockholm Convention.
PFAS scope and timelines are moving fast. Treat this entry as orientation and track the official ECHA restriction process before making design or sourcing decisions.
Note: Educational summary maintained by the Pareo team. Verify specific PFAS, uses and restriction status against ECHA and the relevant regulations.