New Zealand is prohibiting using a class of chemical compounds identified for his or her non-degradability and suspected hostile impacts on human well being.
Announced by the Environmental Protection Authority on Tuesday, the ban on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in beauty merchandise will take impact from Dec. 31, 2026.
New Zealand is likely one of the first international locations on this planet to ban PFAS, typically described as “forever chemicals,” the authority stated.
PFAS are generally utilized in merchandise similar to nail polish, shaving cream, basis, lipstick and mascara. They are added to clean the pores and skin or to make beauty merchandise extra sturdy, spreadable and water resistant.
The authority’s hazardous substances reassessment supervisor, Shaun Presow, stated worldwide analysis steered PFAS have been solely present in a number of merchandise.
“But we take a precautionary approach to potential risks from PFAS,” he stated.
“We know these chemicals don’t easily break down, they can build up in our bodies and some can be toxic at high levels.”
Banning the chemical compounds in cosmetics was a part of the nation’s ongoing response, which incorporates phasing out all PFAS-fire-fighting foams and testing for background ranges of PFAS within the atmosphere.
Synthetic chemical compounds are used extensively in shopper merchandise and industrial processes worldwide as a result of their water, grease, warmth and stain-resistant properties.
Source: www.dailysabah.com