UK Government Seeks Input on Proposed Persistent Organic Pollutants

The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has issued a call for information on two types of chemical substances proposed as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) under the United Nations' Stockholm Convention. This initiative aims to gather data to support the development of a draft risk profile and risk management evaluation for these substances.

Understanding the Stockholm Convention

The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants is a global treaty that aims to protect human health and the environment from harmful chemicals that persist in the environment, accumulate in living organisms and pose significant risks to human health and ecosystems. Due to their ability to travel long distances through air, water, or migratory species, POPs can affect regions far from their original source.

The Convention requires the Parties to take measures to eliminate or restrict the production, use and release of listed POPs and to reduce unintentional releases. As a signatory, the UK plays a proactive role in reviewing and managing chemicals proposed for inclusion in the Convention.

Substances under Review

The substances currently under consideration are:

• Polyhalogenated Dibenzo-p-dioxins and Dibenzofurans (PXDD/Fs): DEFRA id seeking information to assist in the preparation of a risk profile for these chemicals, as required by Annex E of the Stockholm Convention.

• Chlorinated Paraffins with Carbon Chain Lengths C14-17: Information is sought to support the risk management assessment, with a focus on socio-economic factors and potential exemptions for continued use.

Further details on the substances and their assessment can be found in the associated Defra publication here.

How to Contribute

Stakeholders are encouraged to submit relevant information by completing the relevant submission forms available on the UK Government website here. All responses should be sent to POPs@defra.gov.uk by the deadline of 29 November 2024.

Implications for Environmental Policy

The data collected will play a crucial role in shaping the UK's approach to managing these substances, ensuring compliance with international obligations under the Stockholm Convention and protecting public health and the environment.