CA Governor Bans PFAS, Legislates Truth in Labeling for Compostables
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This fall, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed two laws banning the use of toxic PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals” in disposable food packaging as well as in children’s products. He also signed a package of bills to overhaul California’s recycling system. The PFAS ban, which is already in effect in the European Union, would take effect at the beginning of 2023. Read the bill here.
“PFAS are commonly found in food packaging, including in much of the packaging labeled as compostable.”
They are also found in nonstick cookware, toys, and make up. They are linked to kidney, liver, immunological, developmental and reproductive issues.
According to the Food Packaging Forum, Connecticut, Vermont, and Minnesota are also rolling out bans of PFAS in food packaging. Additionally, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham filed a petition with the US Environmental Protection Agency to list PFAS as hazardous waste under the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.
Governor Newsom also signed a law banning the use of the “chasing arrows” recycling symbol, as well as measures to discourage exporting plastic, and labeling requirements meant to ensure that products labeled as compostable are not misleading.
By Olivia Kelly, Director of Strategic Growth