Read the related press-release (22/11/2018)

Introduction

Progress in scientific knowledge and efforts to protect consumers, as well as public pressure, are contributing to restrictions over toxic chemicals in consumer products. Mouthing toys for children, food contact materials, and kitchen utensils belong to products that are regulated in Europe. Nevertheless, there are huge legislative loopholes ignoring contamination of those critical items by a class of chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs). POPs are considered unmanageable due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, long-range transport and toxicity. The Stockholm Convention is a legally-binding global treaty that seeks to protect human health and the environment by reduction and elimination of POPs. The treaty’s list of 28 substances includes brominated flame retardants (BFRs) commonly used in the plastic casings of computers, televisions, electronic office equipment, and many other electrical and electronic items.