CDU application for PFAS: BUND demands ban according to EU chemical strategy
CDU application for PFAS: BUND demands ban according to EU chemical strategy
On January 18, 2024, a CDU application causes excitement in the Bundestag. The proposal "advantages of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances further use- preserve- protect health and environment" questions the regulation of PFAs. These chemicals are considered to be extremely dangerous for people and the environment and are used in many products. Ulrike Kallee, Head of Department of Substances and Technologies at the BUND, comments on the application and calls for a ban on PFAS. It criticizes the CDU and the Association of Chemical Industry for its efforts to prevent the restriction of "eternity chemicals".
A ban on Pfas is of great importance, since these chemicals are only broken down very slowly and accumulate in the environment for centuries. In Berlin and other German cities, many PFAS-contaminated areas are known that can only be renovated with considerable effort. In addition, most of the more than 10,000 PFAS connections are hardly or only inadequate, which is a significant risk for people and the environment.
The federal government supports the proposal for the EU chemical strategy, which provides for a restriction of the entire PFAS group based on the precautionary principle. This proposal enables long transition periods for "essential applications" and demands quick and comprehensive bans in sensitive areas such as food packaging and cosmetics.
The discussion about the regulation of PFAS is particularly relevant in Berlin, since the city is confronted with loads in floors and waters, among other things. A comprehensive renovation and regulation of these loaded areas is of great importance for the health of the Berlin population and the environment.
In view of the health and ecological risks associated with PFAs, it is of crucial importance that political decision -makers support the regulation and prohibition of these chemicals. Protection of people and the environment should always come first, and the introduction of safe alternatives is essential. Berlin citizens and communities should actively work for stricter regulations and measures to renovate contaminated areas to minimize the consequences of PFAs for the urban environment.if necessary, the following table could give an overview of the burden of PFAS in Berlin and the affected areas:
| District | Strain of stress | Measures for renovation |
| ————— | —————————————- |
| Berlin-Mitte | High | Ongoing renovation measures |
| Charlottenburg | Medium | Planned examinations |
| Kreuzberg | Low | Monitoring of the stress |
The integration of the population and local organizations is of great importance to influence politics and to work for a strict regulation of PFAS.
ed.: BUND for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND) e.V., Petra Kirberger (V.I.S.D.P.), Kaiserin-Augusta-Allee 5, 10553 Berlin