SGS on Textile Innovation and the PFAS Phase-out
BAAR, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / February 06, 2026 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, highlights developments in the sustainable textile industry following moves to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
The PFAS family of ‘forever chemicals’ have been widely used in the textile industry for their water/stain/oil repellency but their bioaccumulation and subsequent health risks have led to widespread regulatory restriction. In this Consumer Compact article, SGS examines the extraordinary innovation that the phase-out of PFAS has generated, and the opportunities it has brought to the industry.
The article explores the beginnings of PFAS restrictions in the early 2000s, summarizing major global legislation which has sought to protect human and environmental health in Europe, the US, Canada and Asia. The challenge for manufacturers, supply chains and brands has been significant: finding sustainable alternatives that meet consumer and regulatory expectations has become a complex balancing act, with phased elimination strategies and strengthened chemical management systems now essential.
Innovation driven by restriction
While performance and safety requirements have increased, enterprising businesses have found opportunities in developing safe and effective PFAS alternatives. The article reports on new sustainable technologies, such as breathable waterproof membrane polymers, enhanced microporous membranes, biodegradable polymer blends and single-layer membranes, which offer durable waterproofing and comfort without the use of harmful chemicals – enabling progress toward long-term sustainability goals.
Expert solutions
In the article, SGS introduces the Softlines Total Solution to help businesses move from reliance on PFAS by prioritizing the sourcing of effective alternatives acceptable to regulatory requirements – with testing methods, analysis, management services, specialized resource platforms and collaboration/training services. This comprehensive approach supports brands in implementing safer chemistries, improving transparency and strengthening supply chain resilience. These can be applied across complex supply chains, giving the industry the tools to turn the PFAS phase-out into an opportunity for innovation and improvement.
IMPACT NOW for sustainability
IMPACT NOW for sustainability supports businesses with practical solutions under four key pillars of climate, circularity, nature and environmental and social governance. Under the nature pillar are a selection of solutions for the detection and assessment of PFAS, helping to drive sustainable innovation and enhanced regulatory compliance. These services enable organizations to better understand their PFAS exposure and make informed decisions that support long-term environmental goals. Learn about IMPACT NOW for sustainability.
Read the full article, ‘PFAS Phase-Out Drives Sustainable Innovation in Textiles’.
For further information, contact:
Florence Cheung
Senior Technical Development Manager
+852 6018 9863
About Us
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
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