The European Union has strengthened chemical safety rules with Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1482, published in the Official Journal on October 28, 2025. This amendment to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) introduces stricter limits on Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in recycled materials, aiming to better protect human health and the environment.
Targeted Chemicals
The regulation covers five PBDEs:
• Tetrabromodiphenyl ether
• Pentabromodiphenyl ether
• Hexabromodiphenyl ether
• Heptabromodiphenyl ether
• Decabromodiphenyl ether
These substances, historically used as flame retardants, can reappear in products made from recycled or recovered materials.
Effective Date
i. The regulation enters into force on November 17, 2025.
ii. Phased Reduction of PBDEs in Recycled Materials
The amendment sets progressive UTC (unintentional trace contaminant) limits for recycled materials and products:
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These stricter limits reflect the higher exposure risk for children and vulnerable populations.
Implications for Industry
Manufacturers, recyclers, and importers must:
• Review material sourcing and processing
• Upgrade sorting, testing, and decontamination technologies
• Ensure compliance with phased limits to continue selling recycled-content products in the EU
Failure to comply could prevent products containing recovered materials from entering the EU market.
Key Takeaways
• Strengthened protection for human health and the environment
• Progressive reduction of PBDEs in recycled goods
• Particularly strict limits for toys and childcare products
Reference: EUR-Lex EU Regulation 2025/1482
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