The Government has today published a plan aimed at protecting people and the environment from harmful ‘forever chemicals’.

The PFAS Plan sets out a framework for action by government, businesses and regulators to better understand where PFAS chemicals originate, how they spread and how exposure to the public and the environment can be reduced.

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, sometimes referred to as ‘forever chemicals’, are regarded as one of the most significant environmental challenges of our times. PFAS have supported economic growth by playing a key role in critical manufacturing industries, and have also contributed to meeting climate change targets through their use in low-carbon technologies. However, growing evidence suggests their widespread use has created risks to human health and the environment that could persist for hundreds of years.

As part of its plans, the Government will launch a consultation later this year on introducing a statutory limit for PFAS in England’s public drinking water supply regulations.

Environment minister Emma Hardy said: “The persistent nature of ‘forever chemicals’ means they pose a long-term challenge for not only our health, but that of the nation’s vital ecosystems. It’s crucial that we protect both public health and the environment for future generations. Through our PFAS Plan, we will act decisively to reduce their harmful effects while transitioning to safer alternatives.

“We will work in partnership with regulators, industry and local communities to deliver coordinated action to ensure ‘forever chemicals’ are not a forever problem.”

For the first time, the full extent of PFAS in England’s estuaries and coastal waters will be assessed. It is hoped that improved testing and monitoring will give regulators a clearer picture of the risks facing these habitats and provide a stronger evidence base for future regulatory decisions.

The plan also highlights the potential to develop safer alternatives to everyday items such as water-repellent clothing and footwear. Evidence indicates that current production methods can release high levels of PFAS into the environment.

A range of further measures and interventions are outlined in the plan, including developing new guidance for regulators and industries to address legacy PFAS pollution on contaminated land. Additional measures include reducing emissions from industrial sites through new guidance on the handling, monitoring and disposal of PFAS, improving soil monitoring by supporting the British Geological Survey, launching new sampling at five locations across England, and completing work to consider restrictions on the use of PFAS in firefighting foams.


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PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals”, have shifted from a niche environmental issue to a global liability crisis. With regulators tightening controls and claimants mobilising, litigation, compliance and insurance exposures are mounting. Laura Madders, partner at Kennedys, writes

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