Prince William and Princess Catherine have shown support for a new French law banning PFAS chemicals in certain everyday products, including cosmetics and clothing.
Their support comes as William prepares for the sixth Earthshot Prize ceremony. His environmental project aims to recognise and support solutions to major environmental problems.
French Green Party MP Nicolas Thierry said the law passed with 231 votes in favour and 51 against. He described PFAS pollution as a major public health scandal and said France was taking action.
PFAS are a large group of human-made chemicals. They are often called “forever chemicals” because some can remain in the environment for decades or even centuries.
The Earthshot organisation highlighted the law and named PFAS-Free France as a 2026 finalist in its “Build a Waste-Free World” category.
It said France’s decision could encourage changes in how products are made across Europe and elsewhere.
Environmental chemist Pierre Labadie also raised concerns about PFAS. François Veillerette, a spokesperson for environmental group Générations Futures, said many of these chemicals are linked to fertility problems, thyroid and liver problems, and certain cancers.
Veillerette credited the law’s success to people working together. He said politicians, scientists, campaigners, charities, members of the public and investigative journalists helped expose the problem and push for action.
William’s focus on Earthshot comes amid further controversy involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and reports of a possible reconciliation between Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and the royal family.
