CIA responds to UK Government’s PFAS Plan

The Chemical Industries Association (CIA) has responded to the UK Government’s first PFAS Plan, which sets out a new framework for understanding PFAS sources, strengthening monitoring and analytical capabilities, and reducing exposure across society and the environment. The Plan recognises both the essential role PFAS play in modern life and the need to manage their persistence responsibly.

The UK Government’s first PFAS Plan sets a clearer direction for how PFAS will be understood, monitored and managed across the country. It recognises both the essential role PFAS play in modern life and the need to address their persistence responsibly. The Plan notes that PFAS “are used throughout our everyday lives as their unique properties have brought significant benefits to society,” while also warning that their “persistence and widespread presence in our environment pose risks we cannot ignore.”

Its focus on evidence, proportionate action and improved transparency reflects long‑standing calls from industry. Work already underway through the CIA PFAS Information Exchange Forum is helping companies share knowledge, identify practical challenges and explore safer alternatives. The Plan explicitly acknowledges this, stating: “We expect to see progress through a combination of improved public understanding, industry‑led and industry‑owned initiatives (such as the Chemical Industry Association’s PFAS Information Exchange Forum), and transparent self‑regulation.”

Parliamentary recognition of CIA’s leadership

During the latest Environmental Audit Committee evidence session, the CIA’s role was highlighted twice. A Committee MP read out the PFAS Plan’s reference to the CIA PFAS Information Exchange Forum, and Defra’s Deputy Director for Chemicals & International noted that CIA “has set up a platform to share within the sector.” This reinforces the importance of structured, industry‑government collaboration as the UK develops its long‑term approach.

Ensuring a workable, risk‑based transition

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, The Chemical Industries Association, Policy Director Nishma Patel underlined why transitions must be carefully managed:

“It’s not a easy overnight sort of solution. Sometimes it can take years to find an alternative that not only works well as PFAS.You want to ensure that you don’t actually create the same or a different issue or challenge in bringing that alternative to the market.”

The PFAS Plan recognises that some uses remain essential where no viable alternatives currently exist, and that improved evidence across air, soil, water and wildlife is needed to guide future decisions. Consistency across the regulatory system will be critical to supporting innovation, protecting critical capabilities and maintaining the resilience of the UK chemicals sector.

The CIA will continue working with government and regulators as the Plan moves into implementation, supporting a science‑based, proportionate and internationally aligned approach that delivers strong environmental protection while safeguarding the competitiveness of UK industry.

Listen to Nishma Patel discussing the PFAS Plan on BBC Radio 5 Live: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002qrjt