Joint statement on the importance of fluoropolymers to the energy transition
04 October 2023
EUGINE and 14 other signatories have released a joint statement on the importance of fluoropolymers to the energy transition and the EU’s net zero industrial aspirations.
As things currently stand, fluoropolymers are included in the proposed EU-wide ban of over 10,000 hazardous per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – an essential pillar of the EU’s Chemicals Strategy and of the EU’s commitment to improving the quality of our air and water and of the products we consume.
Fluoropolymers, however, are an essential component in a wide array of hydrogen-related technologies focused on achieving the climate goals of net zero by 2050.
Fluoropolymers are incorporated into many core components of power plants, preventing leaks, keeping contaminants from entering the system and resistancing to high temperatures, toxic and flammable chemicals.
The restriction would constitute a major risk to the existing electricity system at European level due to the lack of replacement components needed also for the maintenance and service of existing plants. The absolute quantities of fluoropolymers used in power plants are comparably small and the use takes place in protected operating environments with very little risk of uncontrolled release to the environment during use and end-of-life.
The signatories of this statement support the European Union efforts on reducing the use of PFAS across our society and our environment, and the addressing of such efforts through the appropriate regulatory measures. But in doing so, we believe there needs to be a science-based, differentiated approach to the various types of PFAS, based on their essentiality, their environmental impact and availability of alternatives.
