Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are organic chemicals that, once released into the environment pose risks to human health and ecosystems. These "forever chemicals" include substances used in fire-retardant treatments for upholstered domestic seating.
POPs are hazardous due to their persistence in the environment bioaccumulation through the food chain and long range environmental transport across a wide geographical range.
This year POPs surcharges were introduced in Scotland across waste sites for any item containing these pollutants - as these items have to be incinerated.
Where Can POPs Be Found?
The Environment Agency conducted an investigation which revealed the presence of POPs and other hazardous chemicals in the foam of upholstered seating, resulting in the regulation regarding waste management placing a focus on upholstered domestic seating. Additionally, POPs can also be present in waste electrical and electronic equipment.
Seating and furnishings that may contain POPs:
Sofas / Sofa beds / Futons
Armchairs / Office Chairs
Upholstered Chairs / Garden Furniture
Bean bags / Floor and Sofa Cushions
Car Seats / Highchairs
This includes any part made of or containing leather, synthetic leather, fabric or foam.
Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) that may contain POPs:
Office equipment (e.g. photocopiers, printers)
Printed circuit boards / Cables and granulated cable plastics
Plastic cases from display devices (e.g. flat panel displays, cathode ray tubes
What Can You Do to Keep the Environment Safe?
Always do a little research before you purchase new furniture.
Keep fire labels on items so you can pass them on or donate them in the future.
Always keep some room in your budget for responsibly disposing your old item when you plan to replace it, using a SEPA registered waste carrier.
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