Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 on persistent organic pollutants (POP Regulation) | Consolidated version 28/8/2023

Link to latest consolidated version: REGULATION (EU) 2019/1021 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 20 June 2019 on persistent organic pollutants

REGULATION (EU) 2019/1021 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 20 June 2019 is a European Union regulation that deals with persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Persistent organic pollutants are organic compounds that are resistant to environmental degradation and can have harmful effects on human health and the environment. These substances can persist in the environment for long periods and can accumulate in living organisms, including humans.

This regulation aims to protect human health and the environment by controlling and reducing the release of persistent organic pollutants into the environment. It aligns with international agreements and protocols on POPs, such as the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.

Some key provisions of Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 include:

1. Identification and Control of POPs: The regulation identifies specific substances that are considered POPs and sets out measures for their control, including prohibitions and restrictions on production, use, and placing on the market.

2. Listing of New POPs: It establishes a process for evaluating and adding new substances to the list of POPs based on scientific evidence and risk assessments.

3. Elimination and Reduction: The regulation sets out measures for the gradual elimination or reduction of POPs, including the development of strategies and action plans.

4. Monitoring and Reporting: It establishes requirements for monitoring and reporting on the presence and levels of POPs in the environment, as well as measures to address unintentional releases of POPs.

5. Waste Management: It includes provisions related to the management of waste containing POPs, with a focus on minimizing their release during disposal and recycling processes.

6. Exemptions: The regulation allows for limited exemptions for certain uses of POPs, subject to strict conditions and controls.

Overall, Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 is a significant piece of legislation aimed at reducing the environmental and health risks associated with persistent organic pollutants within the European Union. It plays a crucial role in implementing international commitments to address the issue of POPs and protect both human health and the environment.