New POPs Regulation Limits

POPs Regulation (EU) 2019/1021

In light of the recent updates to the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, Centexbel is fully prepared to support the textile and plastics industries in navigating the new compliance landscape. The revised regulations introduce stricter concentration limits for several hazardous substances, including PBDEs, UV-328, and Dechlorane Plus, with significant implications for product testing and certification.

Key Regulatory Changes

The European Commission has adopted several Delegated Regulations that tighten the Unintentional Trace Contaminant (UTC) limits for substances commonly found in textiles, polymers, and recycled materials:

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

Delegated Regulation C(2025)4797 introduces revised UTC limits for PBDEs in mixtures or articles (except food contact materials):

10 mg/kg upon entry into force (virgin grades)
For recycled materials: 500 mg/kg (entry into force), 350 mg/kg (30 Dec 2025), 200 mg/kg (30 Dec 2027)
For toys/children’s products with recycled material: 500 mg/kg (entry into force), 350 mg/kg (30 Dec 2025), 10 mg/kg (18 months after entry into force)

Scrutiny period ends 20 October 2025; entry into force expected early November 2025.

UV-328

Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/843 establishes the following UTC limits:

100 mg/kg from 4 August 2025
10 mg/kg from 4 August 2027
1 mg/kg from 4 August 2029

The measure entered into force on August 4th, 2025.

Dechlorane Plus

1000 mg/kg for 30 months after entry into force
1 mg/kg thereafter

Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1930 was published in the Official Journal of the EU on 25 September 2025, and sets limits as follows:

The measure has already been adopted and published; it will enter into force on 15 October 2025.

Centexbel’s Chemical Laboratory is Ready

Centexbel’s accredited laboratories are equipped with advanced analytical methods to detect and quantify these substances at increasingly lower thresholds. Using LC-MS and HPLC-MS techniques, Centexbel can screen for PBDEs, UV stabilizers like UV-328, and flame retardants such as Dechlorane Plus with high precision.

Special attention is being given to recycled materials, which are subject to transitional limits. Centexbel is actively working with industry partners to ensure that compliance strategies are in place ahead of the deadlines.

These regulatory changes reflect the EU’s commitment to environmental safety and human health. At Centexbel, we’re not just ready — we’re proactive in helping our partners stay compliant and competitive, says Stijn Steuperaert, expert in chemical safety and regulatory affairs at Centexbel