In recent years, the debate on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances) has gained momentum around the world, moving from being a topic restricted to science to becoming a regulatory, legal and social issue. Countries such as the United States, members of the European Union and China have been tightening legislation and establishing strict limits for the use, emission and presence of PFAS in the environment.
This global movement represents a turning point: it is no longer a question of “if” Brazil will regulate PFAS, but “when” and “how”. And in this context, environmental consultancies and brazilian industries need to anticipate.
What are PFAS?
Perfluoroalkylated and polyfluoroalkylated substances, known by the acronym PFASare a broad class of synthetic compounds first developed during the Second World War. Their first large-scale use was in the war industry. Later, they gained notoriety with the creation of the TeflonTeflon, a polymer (PTFE) known for its non-stick properties, is still present today in household utensils such as pots, pans and airfryers.
Currently, PFAS are widely used in products such as grease-resistant papers, fire-fighting foams, cosmetics, waterproof clothing, air-conditioning and industrial filters. However, despite their usefulness, these substances have a dark side that is gaining international attention.
The invisible danger: the risks of PFAS to health and the environment
PFAS are often referred to as “eternal chemicals” because they do not degrade easily in the environment or in the human body. Studies show that prolonged exposure can be associated with various adverse effects, including:
- Hormonal and immune dysfunctions
- Increased risk of cancer
- Decreased fertility
- Liver and kidney problems
In addition, because they accumulate in the environment, PFAS contaminate soils, groundwater and food chains, making them a long-term challenge for environmental control.
The world on alert: legislation and global debates
Several nations have already taken concrete measures to control or ban PFAS compounds:
- United StatesThe EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has made significant progress with specific regulations. Method 1633, for example, was developed to standardize the analysis of PFAS in various environmental matrices. Some US states have already established maximum permitted limits in drinking waterand companies are being held responsible for past contamination.
- European Union: The European Commission has included PFAS as a priority target in the Sustainable Chemicals Strategy, with proposals to ban them in different categories of use by 2030.
- China: The Asian country has been aligning itself with international guidelines with new technical standards and trade restrictions for the production and use of PFAS.
More than that, global companies are under pressure from customers, shareholders and governments to demonstrate control and transparency over the use and emission of these substances. In countries such as the United States, for example, the debate among the public is so advanced that individuals are already asking for PFAS analyses of the water in their homes.
Brazil is starting to move and companies need to be ready
Although Brazil does not have specific legislation on PFAS in place, signs of change are evident:
- The new version of NBR 10004 from ABNTeffective as of 2025, already includes specific updates on PFAS in the classification of hazardous solid waste.
- A CONAMA Resolution 420/2009which deals with soil quality and contaminated areas, is under revisionwith open discussions on the inclusion of PFAS among the health risk parameters..
In addition, technical studies and public hearings have been promoted by universities, environmental agencies and private institutions, strengthening the path towards more restrictive standards in the coming years.
What does this mean for environmental consultancies and Brazilian industries?
The main lesson from the international scenario is clear: inertia can generate operational, legal and reputational risks.
Environmental consultancies and industries that act preventively will have important strategic advantages:
- Early compliance with future legislation
- Greater credibility in environmental audits and licenses
- Favorable positioning in ESG policies and sustainability reports
- Reducing the risk of environmental liabilities and lawsuits
In addition companies operating internationally or in global supply chains are already being required to monitoring and control of PFAS in their processes and waste.
EP: pioneering complete PFAS analysis in Brazil
In anticipation of market requirements and legislation, EP already carries out complete PFASand is a national benchmark in this area:
- ✅ Largest scope of PFAS accredited by Cgcre/Inmetrowith more than 45 compounds in multiple matrices.
- 100% compliance with EPA Method 1633 for customers in the USA.
- Analysis of matrices such as drinking water, effluents, liquid and solid waste.
- ✅ Ultra-low limits of quantificationwith high technical sensitivity.
- Advanced technologies such as LC-MS/MS and SPE extraction.
Conclusion
The debate on PFAS is no longer just technical, it has become social, regulatory and strategic. Brazil needs to prepare, and the time is now.
Companies that want to stand out on the environmental and industrial scene will need to incorporate PFAS analysis into their practices. And EP is ready to be your partner in this challenge.
Contact us to find out how our PFAS analysis can help your company stay one step ahead of legislation and sustainability.
