The EU has published Regulation 2015/2030 amending Regulation (EC) No 850/2004 on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) as Annex I, prohibiting short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs, C10-C13 chloroalkanes).

The amendment introduces a new requirement to limit SCCPs in product: products containing SCCPs in concentrations equal to or greater than 0.15 % by weight are prohibited. The production, placing on the market and use of substances or preparations containing SCCPs in concentrations lower than 1 % by weight shall continue to be allowed.

In textile products and footwear, SCCPs are often used as fatiliquor in leather and plasticizer in plastics and rubbers, and also used as flame retardants.

Suggestion

This regulation clarifies the requirement limit of SCCPs in finished goods. It is a guidance for manufacturers to control SCCPs in their products. Manufacturers should avoid using SCCPs in order to comply with this EU regulation.