Green Seal bans the use of PFAS in paints, coatings, adhesives, floor care products, and degreasers.

Global non-profit Green Seal® has announced a ban on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its certified paints, coatings, floor care products, adhesives, and degreasers. This move aligns with Green Seal's commitment to remove these harmful "forever chemicals" from the consumer product supply chain.

Green Seal is one of the first eco-certifiers to impose a comprehensive ban on PFAS as a class of chemicals. The organization defines PFAS as chemicals containing one or more fully fluorinated carbon atoms, a broad definition that includes over 14,000 substances, reflecting the approach of most U.S. state-level PFAS bans.

Green Seal-certified products already meet high standards for safety and environmental protection. These certifications help products earn points toward LEED v4.1 Low-Emitting Materials and Material Ingredient Optimization credits, distinguishing them as leaders in sustainability.

As part of the update, Green Seal will also ensure that certified paints and building restoration products are free from PFAS, positioning participating brands as leaders in sustainability and protecting them from greenwashing by backing up their claims with verified standards. This update follows similar changes to Green Seal’s criteria for cleaning and personal care products.

“Both producers and buyers know the hazards of PFAS but lack reliable ways to ensure products are formulated without these toxic chemicals,” said Doug Gatlin, CEO of Green Seal. “Green Seal’s standard criteria eliminate PFAS from the product formula while maintaining performance requirements, so buyers can confidently choose safer and more sustainable products.”  

PFAS contain carbon-fluorine bonds, which give them remarkable stability and the ability to repel oil, water, and heat. However, this same structure also makes them resistant to breaking down, causing them to persist in the environment as "forever chemicals." These substances are now present in the blood of most people worldwide and are associated with a range of negative health impacts, including cancer, reproductive issues, and weakened immune function.

Source: Green Seal