During Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics Expo 2026, we collaborated with Textile Exchange to deliver a keynote session titled 'Global PFAS Regulatory Trends and Compliance Solutions for the Circular Economy.'
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of highly persistent synthetic compounds, commonly known as 'forever chemicals', and are increasingly recognized for their potential risks to human health and the environment.
The keynote session was presented by Seeker He, Global Technical Innovation Project Manager, Connectivity & Products, and Adam Gardiner, Recycled Lead for Textile Exchange. Together, they provided comprehensive insights into emerging PFAS regulations, associated industry risks, advances in testing methodologies and strategic pathways to support circularity in the textile sector.
Seeker He highlights the rapid acceleration in global PFAS regulatory requirements.
Mr. He underscored the rapidly tightening global regulatory landscape governing PFAS. He noted that the increasing number of textile and apparel recalls linked to PFAS exceedances highlights growing pressure across international supply chains.
Adam Gardiner emphasizes the role of MMS in driving emissions reduction and advancing circularity goals.
Mr. Gardiner introduced the Materials Matter Standard (MMS), formally released in December 2025 and scheduled to take effect on December 31, 2026, with mandatory certification enforced by the end of 2027. He emphasized that achieving the industry's target of a 45% reduction in raw material-related emissions by 2030 will require transformative change at the fiber production and early processing stages. MMS is designed as a critical tool to drive this system-level transition.
In addition to the keynote session, our experts were available throughout the three-day event to meet stakeholders and discuss practical solutions for navigating PFAS compliance and advancing sustainable material strategies.
Effective PFAS solutions
As a globally recognized leader in testing, inspection and certification, we leverage our global laboratory network to deliver reliable, integrated compliance and sustainability services. We support organizations in navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape while accelerating the textile industry's transition toward a low-carbon, circular future.
To address growing demand for PFAS compliance testing, our analytical capabilities include:
- Total fluorine (TF) screening
- Total organic fluorine (TOF) screening
- Targeted PFAS testing aligned with EN 17681-1:2025
We also provide end-to-end risk control solutions, including on-site risk assessment, root cause analysis and material testing, alongside the 'No PFAS Detected' verification mark. These services help organizations strengthen compliance frameworks and enhance supply chain transparency.
IMPACT NOW for sustainability
Through our four IMPACT NOW for Sustainability pillars – climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity – we deliver innovative solutions that enable smarter decision-making, regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility. As part of our commitment to a climate-neutral, nature-positive and pollution-free future, the nature pillar includes comprehensive solutions to help businesses address the PFAS challenge across their entire value chain.
Learn more about IMPACT NOW for sustainability.
About SGS
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 over 100,000 dedicated professionals. With more than 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 a portfolio of trusted specialized brands, including Applied Technical Services, Brightsight, Bluesign and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN SW).
