Ethiopia Proposes Aircraft Exemption for UV-328 Under Stockholm Convention

At the Twelfth Meeting of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention (April 28–May 9, 2025, Geneva), Ethiopia has proposed a targeted exemption to the scheduled global ban on UV-328, a hazardous UV stabilizer listed under Annex A.

What Is UV-328?

UV-328 is commonly used in plastics and coatings to prevent degradation from sunlight. It is classified as a persistent organic pollutant (POP) due to its environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential health risks.

Proposed Exemption Details

Ethiopia’s proposal seeks to allow continued use of UV-328 for:

• Adhesives and potting compounds in civilian and military aircraft
• Other highly specific aircraft-related applications (pending clarification)

The exemption would be added under Part XII of Annex A, allowing limited use within the aviation sector.

Next Steps in the Process

• The proposal is currently open for comment by all Convention Parties.
• It may be adopted either by consensus or, failing that, by a three-fourths majority vote.
• If approved, the exemption will become legally binding after formal procedures for entry into force are completed.