UN Proposes Ban on Hazardous Chlorinated Paraffins Under Stockholm Convention

At the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP-12) to the Stockholm Convention (April–May 2025), the United Nations proposes listing chlorinated paraffins with carbon chains C14–C17 and chlorine content of 45% or more in Annex A. If adopted, this move would ban their production and use, with limited, time-bound exemptions.

Why Are These Chemicals Targeted?

These chlorinated paraffins are classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) because they:

• Resist degradation in the environment
• Travel long distances through air and water
• Pose significant risks to human and environmental health

Proposed Time-Limited Exemptions

Exemptions may apply for up to 5 years or longer in specific sectors:

1. PVC Products

o Wires, cables (construction)
o Non-food packaging films
o Rubber/plastic insulation
o Conveyor belts (coal mining)

2. Adhesives & Sealants

o Foam sealants (windows/doors)
o Waterproof/anticorrosion coatings
o Aerospace/defence adhesives

3. Industrial Tapes

o Non-structural aerospace and defence uses

4. Metalworking Fluids (Until 2036)

o Restricted to heavy-duty industrial processesc
o Sectors: Aerospace, automotive, nuclear, etc.

5. Replacement Parts (Until 2041 or end-of-life)

o Components in vehicles, electronics, medical, and defence equipment

Obligations if Approved

Countries must:

• Ban production and non-exempted uses
• Label products containing the substances
• Disclose chemical concentrations
• Protect exposed workers
• Monitor and revise limits over time

COP-12 is expected to vote on the listing and amendments. If approved, the restrictions and exemptions will become legally binding, requiring national compliance and regular reporting.

Reference: Stockholm Convention – COP.12