“Universal” PFAS restriction process under EU REACH and European Space Sector response: Updated Summary in different languages to inform interested stakeholders

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Eurospace is pleased to provide an updated summary in different languages to inform interested stakeholders about the progress of the EU REACH restriction process for “universal” PFAS (UPFAS) and the European Space Sector response (ref. MPTB-ES-HO-0214). Language versions include English, French, German, Italian and Spanish.

The summary is provided in different language versions to facilitate proper communication on the topic.

ECHA’s scientific committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) are currently finalising their opinions on the restriction proposal, which was updated in June 2025. The opinions are now expected by the end of 2026. The European Commission, together with the EU Member States, will then decide on the restriction.

The timeline for the adoption and entry into force of the restriction is currently unclear. The European Commission is committed to presenting a proposal “as soon as possible” after receiving ECHA’s opinions, with the overall objective of minimising PFAS emissions.

If the EU REACH PFAS restriction was adopted as a comprehensive ban without a space-specific derogation, the European Space Sector would face serious issues. Detailed European Space Sector comments were therefore prepared in the frame of the Space Restrictions Task Force (RTF) and provided to ECHA on 22 September 2023 (see HERE).

As a next step, the RTF is now preparing for the 2nd ECHA public consultation on the SEAC draft opinion, which is expected to be held between March – May 2026: This will be the last formal opportunity to provide comments in the UPFAS restriction process.

The language versions can be accessed here:

  • English version (HERE)
  • French version (HERE)
  • German version (HERE)
  • Italian version (HERE)
  • Spanish version (HERE)

Please note that these updated versions replace those published in September 2024 (ref. MPTB-ES-HO-0159, -0160, -0161, -0162, -0163).

Contact for further information:

  • Secretariat: Valentin Marie, Compliance manager – Research analyst, ASD-EUROSPACE, marie@eurospace.org, +33 (0)7 86 58 74 34
  • Subject matter expert and RTF Coordinator: Tim Becker, Senior Legal Advisor, REACHLaw Ltd., becker@reachlaw.fi; +358 (0)40 773 8143