PFAS Regulations and Travel Goods

Travel Sentry News | October 2024

How PFAS Regulations Will Affect Travel Goods Industry in 2025

What Luggage Manufacturers and Buyers Need to Know

Starting in 2025, new laws will impact the luggage industry due to growing concerns about PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). These chemicals have been used in many products for years, but now they are seen as harmful because they don't break down in the environment and can affect human health.

PFAS are commonly found in water-repellent and stain-resistant products, including luggage.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Being Regulated?

PFAS are often called "forever chemicals" because they take a long time to break down in the environment. While they are useful for making products like luggage more durable and resistant to water and stains, they also pose risks.

PFAS have been found in public water systems and can harm human health. Governments are making new laws to limit the use of PFAS in consumer products, including the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).

Starting in January 2025, several U.S. states, such as California and Vermont, will ban the sale of products containing intentionally added PFAS.

Impact on Luggage Manufacturers

Luggage manufacturers will face challenges in meeting these new PFAS regulations. Many products use PFAS coatings for water resistance and durability. Now, manufacturers must change how they make their products to avoid violating these bans.

Key Steps for Manufacturers:

1. Find New Materials: Manufacturers must replace PFAS with new materials that provide the same benefits. This could involve working with suppliers to find PFAS-free alternatives and ensuring they follow the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act rules.
2. Test All Components: PFAS are present in the fabric, zippers, buttons, and other parts of luggage. Manufacturers must test all components to ensure they comply with new regulations, such as the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR), which tracks harmful substances.
3. Follow Federal Laws: In addition to state regulations, manufacturers must comply with federal laws like TSCA, which monitors harmful chemicals, and NPDES permitting under the Clean Water Act, which controls pollutants in the water supply.
4. Stay Informed: The EPA has created a PFAS Strategic Roadmap to outline future steps for reducing PFAS exposure. Manufacturers should follow these updates closely to ensure compliance.

Impact on Buyers

Buyers, including retailers and bulk purchasers, also need to understand the impact of PFAS regulations. Many consumers worry about PFAS in their drinking water, and buyers must ensure they purchase safe, compliant products.

Key Considerations for Buyers:

1. Ensure Compliance: Buyers should request certificates from manufacturers to confirm that their products do not contain intentionally added PFAS.
2. Testing Products: Some buyers may want to test products before they purchase or sell them.
3. Meet Consumer Demand: Consumers are more aware of PFAS and want safer, more environmentally-friendly products. Offering luggage that meets these standards can build trust and boost sales.

What’s Next for the Luggage Industry?

With these changes coming in 2025, luggage manufacturers and buyers must act now to stay compliant. Manufacturers should work on changing their products and testing for PFAS. Buyers must check that the products they sell are safe and follow all rules.

The Safe Drinking Water Act and Toxic Substances Control Act are just a few of the laws driving these changes, and the EPA's PFAS Strategic Roadmap will continue to shape the industry's future. Staying informed and proactive is the best way to avoid penalties and provide safe, high-quality products.