Denmark to Ban PFAS From Clothing

The Danish aren’t sweet on forever chemicals.

Denmark’s Ministry of the Environment plans to ban all clothing, shoes and waterproofing agents that contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), citing health risks and environmental concerns.

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“We must take the lead in the work to limit PFAS at the source. A national ban on the import and sale of clothing, shoes and implementation agents with PFAS is an important step on the way to limiting emissions and will have a real environmental effect in Denmark,” Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke said in a statement. “Furthermore, we are sending a strong signal to the rest of the world that we must phase out these substances where possible.”

As clothing, shoes and waterproofing agents are the largest sources of PFAS in Denmark’s environment, the ban would cover imported and Danish-made apparel but exclude professional and safety clothing “where special requirements are made” for functionality. It will still be possible to use PFAS-laden items bought before the ban comes into effect, as the proposal doesn’t cover reuse and recycling.

The executive order on the ban is expected to be ready by July of next year and officially kick in a year later on July 1, 2026, thus giving businesses a “transition period” to become compliant. The proposal is subject to consultation, making it possible for companies to register if “special challenges” need to be considered.

“Denmark stands together with four countries behind a proposal for a ban on PFAS in the EU,” the ministry said. “The national ban on PFAS in clothing, shoes and waterproofing agents will apply until the expected EU ban comes into effect.”