POPRC.21 to Tackle Risk Profiles and Exemptions for Key POPs Including PFOS and MCCPs

Professionals in the chemicals industry and regulatory sectors should note that the outcomes of POPRC.21 could directly affect compliance obligations, product formulations, and international trade of substances under review.

New Risk Profile for Brominated Dioxins and Furans

The Committee will evaluate a draft risk profile for polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, as well as mixed halogenated analogues. These substances were deemed to meet the Convention’s Annex D screening criteria at POPRC.20 and are now being considered for listing in Annex C, which targets unintentional production.

If listed, this would compel parties to take measures to reduce or eliminate releases through best available techniques (BAT) and best environmental practices (BEP). These compounds are by-products of industrial processes such as flame retardant manufacture, and their persistence and bioaccumulation pose serious environmental and human health risks.

Review of PFOS and PFOI Exemptions Under Way

POPRC.21 will also begin evaluating the continued need for exemptions under Annex B for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), its salts, and perfluorooctane sulfonyl fluoride (PFOSF). These exemptions have allowed limited use in sectors such as plating, firefighting foams, and certain textiles.

In parallel, the Committee will assess a specific exemption for the use of perfluorooctyl iodide (PFOI) in producing perfluorooctyl bromide (PFOB) for pharmaceutical applications. Any recommendations will inform decisions at COP-13 in 2027.

Stakeholders in pharmaceuticals and high-performance coatings should closely monitor this process, as phasing out these exemptions could necessitate reformulation or substitution strategies.

Support for Future MCCPs Review Process

The Committee will determine how to support the planned reviews of medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) under Annex A. The review of the listing itself is scheduled for COP-14 in 2029, while exemptions will be addressed at COP-15 in 2031.

MCCPs are used in metalworking fluids, PVC products, and flame retardants. Companies in these sectors should anticipate future regulatory scrutiny and start evaluating alternatives where possible.

Indicative Lists and Annex Clarifications

POPRC.21 will finalise indicative lists of substances covered by listings of PFOA, PFHxS, PFOS, and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs). These documents help clarify which chemical variants fall under the Convention’s scope—vital for compliance teams performing substance inventory checks.

The Committee will also address implementation guidance for complex footnotes in Annexes A and B, providing further clarity for regulators and industry.