Ban forever chemicals in the UK

It’s one of the most dangerous poisons you’ve probably never heard of – linked to cancer, fertility issues, and even birth defects – and now it’s everywhere. "Forever chemicals" (PFAS) don’t  break down in the environment. Instead, they build up over time, and are now found in our drinking water, food, blood, and even the human placenta. [1]

But right now, we have a great opportunity to push for their ban. The EU is already racing to a full ban, and the UK government is holding a consultation asking for the public’s opinion. [2] Let’s flood the consultation with 100,000 voices to demand a ban on these poisons!

This isn't just a petition. When we reach our target, 38 Degrees will submit our signatures to the official DEFRA consultation. Add your name and share -- before the consultation closes.

These toxic chemicals are hiding in plain sight – in everyday items we use without a second thought: non-stick pans, waterproof coats, make-up, and food packaging. [3] PFAS are almost impossible to avoid. They seep into our daily lives, and stay literally forever. 

But while Europe is banning the entire group of over 10,000 PFAS across industries, from food packaging to toys, the UK government is only talking about banning them in firefighting foam.

British families deserve the same protection as those in Europe — and we have a window of opportunity to fix this.

The government is deciding its "chemical strategy" right now. Let’s show them that British voters won't accept second-class safety, and push them to match the EU's ban.

Add your name to the consultation, to tell Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds to ban forever chemicals in the UK.

NOTES:

[1] Newsweek: Forever Chemicals Disrupt Placenta, May Add Risk to Pregnancies

[2] FieldFisher: PFAS Regulation in the UK and European Union: November 2025 Overview

[3] The Guardian: Are PFAS in everything? What you need to know about ‘forever chemicals’