On 12 January 2026 the new EU rules limiting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, often called "forever chemicals") in drinking water entered into force, requiring all Member States to apply harmonised monitoring standards and limit values. It is the first time the EU has launched systematic PFAS monitoring of drinking water across the Union.

Core limits and response

Under the revised Drinking Water Directive, the new rules set two core limits: total PFAS must not exceed 500 nanograms per litre (0.5 micrograms per litre), and the sum of 20 specific PFAS compounds must not exceed 100 nanograms per litre (0.1 micrograms per litre). Member States may choose to monitor one or both parameters. Where concentrations exceed the limits, they must immediately take measures such as closing contaminated wells, adding PFAS removal treatment or restricting supply, and inform the public promptly. They must also report monitoring data to the European Commission at regular intervals, including exceedances, contamination incidents and applications for derogations.

Technical support and background

To ensure consistent monitoring, the European Commission published technical guidance on PFAS analysis in 2024, setting out standardised methods for "total PFAS" and "sum of specific PFAS" and giving all countries a common technical basis. The new rules also simplify the existing data reporting system, reducing the administrative burden on Member States while making PFAS contamination data comparable and shareable across Europe.

PFAS are persistent and bioaccumulative and are found widely in non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics and food packaging. Long-term intake may disrupt the endocrine system, reduce vaccine effectiveness and contribute to a range of diseases. PFAS contamination has become a major risk to drinking water safety in Europe, and harmonised limits with mandatory monitoring will give Member States a precise control tool to protect public health. The rules are a key deliverable under the EU Water Resilience Strategy and the Zero Pollution Action Plan, and build on the Drinking Water Directive as revised in 2020.