The World Assembly,
Recognizing the usefulness of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), such as poly(tetrafluoroethylene) and derivatives, in producing non-reactive materials,
Encouraging the use of many of these substances in novel renewable energy technologies (e.g., redox flow batteries, proton-exchange membrane fuel cells) given their unique non-reactivity among organic compounds, which provides chemical stability under the harsh conditions required for many said technologies,
Concerned about the significant human and animal health impacts of fluorinated substances, including developmental issues in youth, cancer, hormonal problems, and organ failure,
Excited about the potential for further research in developing chemical recycling and upcycling of fluorinated substances,
Mandates the following:
- Production of fresh PFAS is prohibited except for explicit use in research, development, and production of renewable energy technologies.
- Industrial production of PFAS is otherwise limited to recycling and upcycling of previously manufactured PFAS.
- Industrial PFAS producers shall test for PFAS in ground and surface water in the vicinity of, downstream in the watershed from, and within the grounds of each producing facility no less than once per year.
- A report of the outcomes of the testing in (3) shall be reported to the member state that facility is located in each year.
- Production of PFAS in a facility shall be immediately suspended if the testing in (3) is determined to contain any test in which the concentration of PFAS exceeds one part per trillion.
- No new PFAS production facilities may be built, except to move production away from natural water sources.
- PFAS waste shall be stored as far away as practicable from natural water sources, and waste disposal and associated contamination costs will be paid for by the final producers of said PFAS waste.
