Recast POP Regulation - Persistent organic pollutants - published in OJ
01 June 2019
The recast POP regualtion has now been published in the Official Journal
We can confirm the final text removes the current exemption for Transformers and use of PCBs. The text is as follows:
‘Without prejudice to Directive 96/59/EC, articles already in use at the time of the entry into force of this Regulation are allowed to be used. Member States shall identify and remove from use equipment (e.g. transformers, capacitors or other receptacles containing liquid stocks) containing more than 0,005 % PCBs and volumes greater than 0,05 dm3, as soon as possible but no later than 31 December 2025.’ – Annex 1 Part A
We know the UK Government have a keen interest in tackling legacy and future products containing POPs through regulation. This was highlighted in the recently published resource and water strategy, where they pledge to address barriers to the reuse and recycling posed by the use of certain chemicals through the introductions of a UK Chemicals Strategy. This is now published in the OJ and therefore as the UK remains a member of the EU at this date the UK is obliged to implement the requirements of this new regulation.
