Assess scientifically instead of banning indiscriminately
The debate surrounding PFAS is gaining momentum in Switzerland. At its core are questions about potential risks to human health and the environment, as well as future regulatory approaches. A differentiated, science-based approach is essential – as emphasised by scienceindustries in a short interview with Dominique Werner, Head of Chemicals Regulation.
Friday, December 19, 2025
PFAS are not a homogeneous group of substances. They are widely used and encompass thousands of compounds with very different properties. Some are considered persistent and toxic, while others are far less mobile or biologically available. A blanket classification as “hazardous chemicals” therefore falls short. Likewise, general limit values – for example in drinking water – must be toxicologically justified and based on scientific assessments of individual substances.
At the same time, many PFAS are used for good reason. In sectors such as medicine, microelectronics, aviation or electromobility, they fulfil functions for which no equivalent alternatives are currently available. In these fields, PFAS are often difficult to replace and are of high relevance for industry and society. Industry is working on substitute substances and remediation measures. Where technically equivalent and safe alternatives exist, they are used. Where this is not (yet) the case, risk-based regulation is needed instead of blanket bans.
A general regulation or even bans on entire groups of substances without individual assessment risk impairing key industrial applications. Their use must therefore be regulated as intelligently as possible. It is thus appropriate that, on 19 December 2025, the Federal Council decided to launch an action plan that strengthens and institutionalises coordination across federal offices as well as exchanges with the cantons. This will enable federal authorities and cantons to better align their measures in the future and identify any gaps.
In addition to enhanced coordination, the action plan will focus on harmonisation across the areas of water, soil, food and drinking water, where numerous stakeholders are involved (various authorities at federal and cantonal level, different sectors, industrial branches, agriculture, fisheries and water suppliers). A coordinated approach with clearly defined objectives and mechanisms to align cantonal enforcement and monitoring is therefore essential. For example, measures taken when maximum levels in food are exceeded should be coordinated nationwide along the entire food chain.
Despite the major challenges, the action plan does not aim to initiate extensive additional measures. Rather, existing and planned measures are to be bundled, better coordinated and aligned with stakeholders. Improving public information is also a stated goal, particularly via the websites of the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) and the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN).
This is crucial because transparent and factual communication about risks, the risk–benefit balance and the strategies of all parties involved with regard to PFAS is essential. It is equally important that “reassuring results” reach the public – such as those referred to by Alda Breitenmoser, President of the Association of Cantonal Chemists of Switzerland (VKCS), when presenting a representative study of 900 Swiss food products. She stated clearly in the Tages-Anzeiger: “Consumers in Switzerland do not need to fear that they are purchasing food products that are excessively contaminated with PFAS.”
Sources
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