L@B Brief - Feb 2026
COMMENT
PFAS plan opportunities for lab suppliers
THE GOVERNMENT has announced its first-ever PFAS Plan, setting out the actions that need to be taken by government, businesses and regulators to understand where PFAS, (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are coming from, how they spread and how to reduce public and environmental exposure.
While a lot of the focus appears to be on drinking water supplies, the plan also outlines the following measures:
- Developing new guidance for regulators and industries to address legacy PFAS pollution on contaminated land to ensure a consistent and practical approach.
- Consulting on the introduction of a statutory limit for PFAS in England’s public supply regulations to improve drinking water quality.
- Carrying out tests on food packaging, like microwave popcorn bags and pizza boxes, to support future regulatory action.
- Publishing a new website to raise public awareness and understanding of PFAS.
- Reducing emissions from industrial sites through new guidance for regulators and site operators on how to improve their handling, monitoring and disposal of PFAS.
- Improving the monitoring of PFAS in soils by initiating new sampling at five locations across England.
- Completing work to consider restrictions on the use of PFAS in firefighting foams.
For the full plan details, click here.
Although future restrictions may pose challenges for manufacturers, the good news for GAMBICA members is that increased awareness and testing requirements will inevitably drive demand for laboratory equipment and consumables. Good for us, and good for the public!
See you at the conference!
Tony
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