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The Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023
Overview
In an ongoing effort to tackle environmental challenges, the UK government has introduced the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023. These Regulations bring crucial amendments to the list of regulated substances in Annex 1 to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, addressing persistent organic pollutants (POPs). In this article, we’ll delve into the key aspects of these regulations, exploring their overview, key requirements, and the implications for businesses.
Persistent organic pollutants pose significant threats to the environment and human health due to their resistance to degradation. The amendment introduces a notable change by incorporating “Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), its salts, and PFHxS-related compounds” into the list of regulated substances. This addition is in response to Decision SC-10/13 of the Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention.
The key requirements of these Regulations include:
- Newly Regulated Substance: PFHxS, its salts, and PFHxS-related compounds are now subject to regulation. These substances encompass perfluorohexane sulfonic acid, including branched isomers, its salts, and any substance containing the chemical moiety C6F13SO2- potentially degrading to PFHxS.
- Concentration Limits: The regulations specify concentration limits based on different contexts:
- For PFHxS and its salts in substances, mixtures, or articles: Equal to or below 0.025 mg/kg (0.0000025% by weight).
- For PFHxS-related compounds in substances, mixtures, or articles: Equal to or below 1 mg/kg (0.0001% by weight).
- For PFHxS, its salts, and related compounds in concentrated fire-fighting foam mixtures: Equal to or below 0.1 mg/kg (0.00001% by weight).
These Regulations were made on the 15th of November 2023 and apply exclusively to the United Kingdom.

Do the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023 affect my business?
These regulatory changes have several implications for businesses, including:
- Compliance Costs: Businesses need to invest in assessing and adjusting their processes to comply with the concentration limits. While a de minimis assessment suggests a net impact below £5 million per year, individual businesses must evaluate their specific situations.
- Product Labelling: Manufacturers and producers must update product labels to reflect the presence and concentrations of PFHxS and related compounds. This ensures transparency and helps consumers make informed choices.
- Reporting Requirements: Accurate reporting of concentrations, particularly in fire-fighting foam mixtures, is crucial. Businesses must ensure that their reporting practices align with the new regulations.
The Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023 mark a significant step in addressing environmental concerns associated with persistent organic pollutants. While introducing new regulations, the government emphasises the need for businesses to play a pivotal role in mitigating the impact of these pollutants. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, businesses can contribute to a healthier environment and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
Do I need the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023 in my ISO Compliance Register?
You will need the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023 in your ISO Compliance Register if your business is categorised below:
- Chemical Manufacturing: Businesses involved in the production of PFHxS, its salts, and related compounds or products containing these substances.
- Fire-fighting Equipment Manufacturers: Companies manufacturing fire-fighting foam mixtures must adhere to the specified concentration limits.
- Consumer Goods Manufacturers: Producers of products like textiles, electronics, and coatings containing PFHxS or related compounds should assess and modify their manufacturing processes.
- Regulatory Compliance Consultancies: Firms specialising in regulatory compliance may see an increased demand for their services as businesses seek guidance on adhering to the new requirements.
Legislation related to the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023
Legislation related to the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023 include:
- Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 on persistent organic pollutants
- Regulation (EC) No 850/2004 on persistent organic pollutants
- The Persistent Organic Pollutants Regulations 2007
More information
Visit the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023 article on the legislation.gov.uk website.
Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article (which are updated by the Persistent Organic Pollutants (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023) to your Register.