This document provides a comprehensive summary of current knowledge regarding alternatives to perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and its salts, and perfluorooctane sulfonyl fluoride (PFOSF) in an effort to bolster the capabilities of developing nations and countries in transition to phase them out.
The guidance delves into the various applications of PFOS, its salts and PFOSF, primarily as surfactants in processes like impregnation, coating, metal plating, and fire-fighting foams. It identifies instances where alternative substances have been proposed, are accessible, or have already been introduced to the market in select countries. These alternatives can be either fluorinated or non-fluorinated and are available for most current uses. However, it is crucial to recognize that these alternatives may not be perfect substitutes and might not be economically and technically equivalent to PFOS, and could potentially present environmental and health risks at certain levels.
The target audience are POPRC members, parties, and manufacturers/users of these chemicals seeking alternatives, stakeholders from governmental institutions, agencies, science, and representatives of environmental and agencies involved in drafting and implementing action plans. This material is also helpful for those involved in the National Implementation Plan (NIP) review and update, in particular the task teams, POPs and environmental consults and national focal points.