Risks, Uses, and Replacements for a Sustainable Future

The training session will address the scientific and regulatory challenges related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), with a focus on the role of scientific evidence in supporting effective policymaking.

The programme will include contributions from experts working at the science–policy interface, including representatives from the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the research community. Discussions will cover current developments in PFAS regulation, key scientific considerations for risk assessment, and broader implications for environmental and public health protection.

The workshop is designed to promote dialogue between scientists, policymakers and stakeholders, and to strengthen mutual understanding of the complexities surrounding PFAS management in Europe.

Programme:

13:00 – 13:05 | Welcome by the host, MEP Dimitris Tsiodras, European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium,

13:05 – 13:08  | Welcome by EuChemS, Angela Agostiano, EuChemS President, Bari, Italy

13:08 – 13:15 | Setting the scene, Floris Rutjes, Scientific Chair of EuChemS PFAS event

13:15 – 13:25 | PFAS restrictions: A huge challenge for public health and the innovation in industry, Maria Spyraki, ECHA Management Board member 

13:25 – 13:40  | Title to be confirmed, Martin Scheringer, ETH Zürich, Switzerland

13:40 – 13:55  | Legal considerations for the health sector, Ruxandra Cana, Steptoe 

13:55 – 14:10  |  Title to be confirmed, Takayuki Nakamura, PlasticsEurope

14:10 – 14:25  | Is it impossible to substitute PFAS broadly, or just difficult and inconvenient? – Examples from the industry, data availability of alternatives and how legislation can drive innovation, Emil Damgaard-Møller, Danish Technological Institute, Taastrup, Denmark

14:25 – 14:35  | Title to be confirmed, Denis Mottet, European Commission, DG GROW 

14:35 – 14:50  | Q&A session

14:50 – 15:00  | Concluding remarks, MEP Dimitris Tsiodras and Floris Rutjes