PFAS: EU pushes for ban on forever chemicals in consumer products

21/01/2025

The European Union is advancing plans to ban harmful forever chemicals in consumer products as part of its efforts to combat plastic and chemical pollution. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, are currently used in thousands of day-to-day items, from non-stick cookware to cosmetics.

The European Commission is planning to propose a ban on the use of PFAS, commonly known as forever chemicals, in consumer products due to their persistent environmental and health impacts, which range from liver damage, reduced birth weights, testicular cancer, thyroid disorders, and decreased vaccine responses in humans to widespread ecological issues.

Speaking about the incoming proposal to Reuters, EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall said, “What we know we are looking for is a ban in consumer products… This is something that is important for us human beings, of course, but also for the environment, but I think also for the industry so they know how they can phase out PFAS.”

Roswall went on to admit that the proposal is not likely to be finalised before 2026 at best, while acknowledging that there would almost certainly be some exemptions.

PFAS are used in numerous household items due to their resistance to heat and corrosion, but their gradual breakdown is leading to a buildup of these dangerous forever chemicals in groundwater, surface water, and soil, allowing them to enter the food chain and pose health risks to humans and animals alike.

The French government has acknowledged the severity of PFAS-related risks and is actively implementing measures to limit their use. Recognising the widespread presence of PFAS in the environment, France is taking steps to address their impact on ecosystems and public health.

See more: France addresses concerns about PFAs, the forever chemicals that are threatening all lifeforms

Meanwhile, in the United States, the health risks associated with PFAS have already resulted in significant legal consequences. Lawsuits over contamination have led to settlements exceeding $11 billion from major companies such as 3M and Chemours, according to Reuters, and European companies could soon face similar litigation.

In comments made to Reuters, Hélène Duguy, a French lawyer with the environmental law firm ClientEarth, warned of a potential “wave” of lawsuits targeting pollution or the downplaying of PFAS’s environmental and health impacts.

“ClientEarth is closely monitoring companies’ conduct on PFAS and will not shy away from action,” she said.

Global efforts

In 2022, over 170 nations, including Monaco, agreed to create a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution by 2024 under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). However, negotiations during the fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee session in November 2024 failed to finalise the treaty due to disagreements on production limits and financial responsibilities. Consequently, negotiations are set to resume in 2025.]

Ongoing environmental initiatives

The issue of plastic pollution, including the impact of persistent chemicals like PFAS, has been a focal point in various environmental initiatives.

For instance, during Monaco Ocean Week 2023, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) presented a report titled ‘The Mediterranean: Mare Plasticum’, focusing on the severity of plastic pollution in the Mediterranean Sea.

Additionally, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has been actively involved in combating plastic pollution. The foundation launched the BeMed project in 2015 to address this pressing issue.

Read related:

Monaco Ocean Week: World-first report into life cycle of plastics delivers shocking results

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: Klaus Nielsen, Pexels

Remembering Didier Guillaume, a “remarkable statesman” who dedicated his life to meaningful change

by: Niki Borisova

21/01/2025

With the Principality set to enter a national day of mourning following the passing of Didier Guillaume, Monaco’s late Minister of State, Monaco Life looks back on the career of a man who has left behind him a profound legacy of dedication and commitment to meaningful change and progress.

Didier Guillaume, who passed away at the age of 65 on 17th January 2025 following hospitalisation a week prior, served as Monaco’s Minister of State for just four months before his untimely death. Despite that brief time, Guillaume had a notably positive effect on the Principality, driving forward a variety of schemes and policies that sought to improve the quality of life for its residents.

Guillaume assumed the mantle of Minister of State in September 2024, taking over from Pierre Dartout, and he quickly set about addressing key issues in Monaco, from urban development and public safety to the energy transition. He made a strong impact through measures such as the introduction of additional speed cameras and the increased surveillance of Monaco’s roads, stepping up to push through new powers for law enforcement after a spate of drink-driving accidents. His focus on sustainable practices in urban development and energy efficiency, meanwhile, aligned with Monaco’s vision for a greener future.

But Guillaume’s contributions to public life extended beyond Monaco and into France, where he has been remembered for his expertise, pragmatism and dedication to progress.

Born on 11th May 1959 in Bourg-de-Péage, a town in France’s Drôme department, Guillaume was shaped by his rural roots, which directly influenced his career in politics.

His public service began locally, as Mayor of Bourg-de-Péage from 1995 to 2004, and later as President of the General Council of Drôme, where he focused on rural development and sustainability. Elected as Senator in 2008, he served as Senate Group President in 2014, leading efforts in agriculture, rural development and social policy. Later, as France’s Minister of Agriculture and Food from 2018 until 2020, Guillaume championed agricultural reforms, climate change initiatives and food security.

Guillaume’s legacy both in France and the Principality was honoured in Monaco on 20th January with a mass at the Cathedral of Monaco, as well as during moments of silence observed across the community. A chapel of rest has been set up at the Chapelle de la Miséricorde, allowing residents to pay their respects ahead of his funeral on 23rd January.

In a statement released in the wake of Guillaume’s death, Prince Albert II described him as a “remarkable statesman” whose dedication and expertise left a lasting impression.

“I am deeply moved by the loss of a man of commitment and heart,” said the Prince. “The Principality of Monaco loses an exemplary servant, whose actions and loyalty will remain engraved in our memories. I offer my sincere condolences to his family, as well as my warmest thoughts to all those who mourn him today.”

Guillaume’s sudden passing has left a deep void, but his contributions to public service and the betterment of Monaco and France will be remembered for years to come.

Read related:

Monaco pays tribute to Didier Guillaume

Photo source: Monaco Communications Department

Monaco’s Hugo Nys through to Australian Open quarter-final with French partner

by: Stephanie Horsman

21/01/2025

The newly formed partnership of Hugo Nys and Édouard Roger-Vasselin is making waves at the Australian Open. Representing both Monaco and France, the pair secured a spot in the men’s doubles quarter-final with a victory over Tomas Machac and Zhizhen Zhang on Monday 20th January.

The match against Czech player Machac and China’s Zhang lasted one hour and 48 minutes, ending with scores of 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. It was a showcase of Nys and Roger-Vasselin’s synergy and resilience on the court, despite being a relatively new pairing.

The Australian Open quarter-final match on Wednesday 22nd January promises to be a formidable and exciting test for Monegasque player Nys and his French partner; they will face Finland’s Harri Heliövaara and the UK’s Henry Patten, the No. 6 seeds in the competition and the reigning Wimbledon champions.

A doubles specialist, 33-year-old Nys achieved his career-high ATP doubles ranking of No. 12 in June 2023. He etched his name in the record books as the first Monegasque player to reach both the semi-final and final of a major tournament at the 2023 Australian Open, and now, with Roger-Vasselin by his side, Nys is once again hoping to prove his prowess on the international stage.

Roger-Vasselin, at 41 years old, brings a wealth of experience to the partnership. The Frenchman is a seasoned doubles player with two Grand Slam titles to his name: the 2014 French Open in men’s doubles with Julien Benneteau and the 2024 French Open in mixed doubles alongside Laura Siegemund. Remarkably, Roger-Vasselin remains the last French player in contention in the men’s doubles draw at this year’s Australian Open.

For Monaco, Nys’ achievements represent a source of pride and inspiration. His rise to prominence underscores the Principality’s growing influence in the world of tennis, and as the Australian Open unfolds, all eyes will be on this dynamic partnership as they aim to bring more glory to Monaco and France on the global stage.

Read related:

Game, set, match: Where to find the best tennis courts in and around Monaco

Photo source: Édouard Roger-Vasselin, Facebook

Nice Airport set new record for passenger numbers in 2024 while slashing emissions

by: Stephanie Horsman

21/01/2025

2024 was a record-breaking year for Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur, which includes Nice Airport. In addition to surpassing the benchmark of passenger numbers set in 2019, the group embraced the dual challenge of addressing the region’s growing travel needs while improving sustainability efforts.

Some 14.7 million passengers passed through Nice Côte d’Azur Airport’s two commercial terminals in 2024, up from the previous record of 14.5 million travellers set in the pre-Covid year of 2019 and considerably more than the 14.2 million who frequented the airport in 2023. Indeed, close to 3.5 million people passed through the airport in July and August 2024 alone – with more than 63,000 passengers recorded on the busiest day of the year, 2nd August.

When all aviation sectors are considered —commercial, business and helicopter traffic— the annual passenger figure for 2024 rises to 14.8 million.

General aviation traffic handled by Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur experienced modest growth last year, increasing by 1.15% overall. Traffic at Nice Airport rose by 2.5%, while activity at the smaller airports in Cannes and Saint-Tropez remained stable.

An unprecedented network of destinations

Last year, passengers travelling through Nice Côte d’Azur Airport had access to an unprecedented global network of 122 destinations across 45 countries, including more than a dozen long-haul connections: five routes to the United States, two to Canada and six to the Gulf nations.

See more: Nice Airport announces new United Airlines flight to Washington DC

“Directly connecting the Côte d’Azur to major cities in the region and developing direct routes to international capitals is the way to responsibly meet the transport needs of the Côte d’Azur residents and all those who come to visit us,” says Franck Goldnadel, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur. “This is the challenge of sustainable and necessary air transport.”

Cutting emissions

Environmental studies conducted in 2024 revealed a promising outlook for the group despite the increase in traffic.

By the close of 2024, Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur had achieved a reduction of over 93% in emissions within their direct control, with Nice Côte d’Azur Airport alone recording a 95% reduction compared to 2013 levels.

On this topic, Goldnadel highlights the collective efforts of the aviation industry, saying, “Between the efforts made by the airport on its own emissions and those linked to stopover phases, and the efforts made by the entire aeronautics sector to decarbonise its operations, all stakeholders are committed to reducing the environmental impact of air transport.”

By 2034, the group’s greenhouse gas emissions are projected to decrease by 11% compared to 2024, thanks to advancements in infrastructure and lower-emission aircraft.

Upgrades and renovations

Infrastructural enhancements continued at Nice’s Terminal 2 during 2024, with the goal of better accommodating evolving passenger needs.

A revamped international boarding lounge, commercial spaces and a new airport lounge are set to debut ahead of the 2025 high season and the UN Ocean Conference, which will be held in Nice.

See more: Lanzarote, Madrid and Prague among easyJet’s new winter routes from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport

Additional upgrades, including new check-in and baggage facilities, are planned through early 2026, with the objective of increasing the airport’s annual capacity from 14 million to 18 million passengers.

Read related:

International passenger numbers soared at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport this summer

Photo source: Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo reveals captivating spring/summer 2025 programme

by: Niki Borisova

21/01/2025

Over the next six months, La Compagnie des Ballets de Monte-Carlo will be performing at home and abroad. The programme features a mix of classical and innovative creations, as well as appearances at Les Printemps des Arts de Monte-Carlo festival in April and the Académie Princesse Grace annual gala in June.

The spring season will begin with five performances between 23rd and 27th April at the Grimaldi Forum, all beginning at 7.30pm, with the exception of a final matinee show at 3pm to round out the series on the last day.

On the programme are three distinct pieces: George Balanchine’s The Four Temperaments, a ballet that explores the medieval concept of human temperaments through Paul Hindemith’s dynamic score; Alexei Ratmansky’s Wartime Elegy, a poignant reflection on the resilience of the Ukrainian people amidst the nation’s ongoing conflict with Russia, set to music by Valentin Silvestrov and traditional Ukrainian folk melodies, with visuals by artists Matvi Vaisberg and Maria Prymachenko; and the world premiere of Marco Goecke’s Transfigured Night.

This latter ballet will feature a romantic score by Arnold Schoenberg and delve into emotional complexity and human connection. Goecke’s signature expressive movements bring a fresh interpretation to this composition.

The Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo, conducted by Jesko Sirvend, will accompany the Company’s dancers as part of Les Printemps des Arts de Monte-Carlo festival.

See more: Music without boundaries: what to expect from 2025’s Printemps des Arts de Monte-Carlo

Summer schedule

On 20th and 21st June 2025, the Académie Princesse Grace, a prestigious dance school based in Monaco that has ties to Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, will host its annual gala at the Salle Garnier Opéra de Monte-Carlo. The event is designed to showcase the talents of budding young dancers from the Academy, highlighting their mastery across classical and contemporary styles. For some, this will be their debut on stage, while others will perform for the final time before they take the next step in their careers and join international companies.

Between 17th and 20th July, the Company will present two original works, including one from a former dancer with Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, at the Salle Garnier.

Choreographer Lukáš Timulak, who once performed with the Monaco troupe, will be debuting his latest creation, eponymously named Timulak, which is inspired by the patterns of nature. Working alongside designer Peter Bilak, Timulak has designed the piece to evolve with each separate show, reflecting the ever-changing nature of the world around us.

The second creation comes from Madrid-based company Kor’sia, led by Antonio de Rosa and Mattia Russo. Known for their visually powerful productions, the duo will continue to innovate with a piece exploring the body’s expressive language through scenography and original music.

Each of the four performances will begin at 7.30pm.

International tours

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo will also take their artistry abroad during the first half of the 2025 season.

From 29th January to 1st February, audiences in Zurich will be able to experience Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette at Théâtre 11. Then, from 28th February until 5th March, the Company will be performing Autodance by Sharon Eyal and Vers un Pays Sage by Jean-Christophe Maillot in Paris at the Théâtre de la Ville.

Later in the year, from 26th to 29th June, the Company will take Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette to the Palau de les Arts in Valencia.

Tickets for all Monaco-based performances can be purchased at www.balletsdemontecarlo.com.

Read related:

‘Colours!’: Grimaldi Forum’s summer exhibition for 2025

Photo credit: Alice Blangero / Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo

Monaco pays tribute to Didier Guillaume

by: Cassandra Tanti

20/01/2025

A chapel of rest has been set up at the Chapelle de la Miséricorde in Monaco, allowing residents and visitors to pay their respects to Didier Guillaume, the Principality’s Minister of State, who passed away suddenly on Friday 17th January.

The chapel is open to those wishing to honour his memory and bid a final farewell before his funeral, which is set to take place on Thursday 23rd January, at Monaco’s Cathedral.

The news of Didier Guillaume’s unexpected passing has deeply affected the community in Monaco, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes. To commemorate his service and legacy, a minute of silence was observed across the Principality at 11am on Monday 20th January. This moment allowed residents and officials alike to reflect on his contributions to Monaco during his time in office.

Didier Guillaume’s death has left a significant void within Monaco’s political and social circles. His tenure was marked by a dedication to public service and a deep commitment to the betterment of the Principality. Tributes have continued to pour in from local residents and international dignitaries, underscoring the lasting impact he made during his career.

The Principality has come together in unity during this time of mourning, offering support to his family and loved ones as they prepare for Thursday’s service.

Photo credit: Manuel Vitali, Government Communication Department

Month: January 2025

PFAS: EU pushes for ban on forever chemicals in consumer products

Remembering Didier Guillaume, a “remarkable statesman” who dedicated his life to meaningful change

Monaco’s Hugo Nys through to Australian Open quarter-final with French partner