SUSTAINABILITY
To ensure that all products meet relevant chemical safety standards, we carry out regular tests on both materials and finished products. All our suppliers are required to sign and comply with our chemical guidelines and our Restricted Substances List (RSL), which is based on European legislation.
PFAS & PTFE – identification & phase-out
We are currently mapping where PFAS are present in our products and gradually phasing them out. This is happening step by step and in a controlled way, to ensure that replacement materials deliver equivalent performance. Examples include:
- Battery packs and cables for Free headlamps: contain small amounts of PFAS (PTFE), used to prevent plastic dripping in the event of fire and/or as insulation. This is done in line with regulatory requirements.
- Battery cells: PFAS are likely present in the electrolyte.
- Marine compasses: Viton rubber, which contains PFAS, is used as a sealing material. We are currently investigating alternatives.
Alternatives and progress
In some of our products, such as backpacks, we previously used DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatments containing PFAS. We have now found an alternative, and all our new backpacks will be PFAS-free. This is an important step in reducing our reliance on PFAS while maintaining functionality and quality.
Transparency and reporting
Some of our products contain substances listed in Annex XIV of REACH at levels above the reporting threshold. We are transparent about this and work continuously to identify and evaluate alternatives.
About PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals often used for their water- and oil-repellent properties. They are found in many industrial and consumer applications, but unfortunately they are highly persistent in the environment.
Some PFAS have been linked to cancer, and emerging research indicates additional potential health effects. Due to these risks, PFAS are expected to be subject to stricter regulation in the near future.
Collaboration and knowledge
We are members of Kemikaliegruppen EEE, a network led by RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden) that targets companies in the electronics industry and gives us access to the latest expertise and guidance in this area. Our membership provides:
- access to monitoring and updates on legislation
- practical tools for chemical management
- a network and opportunities to exchange experiences with other companies
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