The European Commission adopted a delegated act amending the EU Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation to add medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) to the list of prohibited substances.
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Scope of the restriction: once applicable, it will generally prohibit the manufacture, placing on the market and use of MCCPs, subject to specific time-limited exemptions. It also sets an unintentional trace contaminant (UTC) limit of 0.1% by weight, applicable to substances, mixtures and articles.
Possible applications: relevant materials may include rubber and flexible PVC components, adhesives and sealants, waterproof or anti-corrosion coatings, and coated synthetic materials. Potentially affected products could include footwear soles and synthetic uppers, inflatable balls, sports bags, protective equipment, mats, grips, and coated or waterproof textile products.
Exemptions: certain waterproof and anti-corrosion coatings benefit from a two-year transitional exemption, with the restriction applying to these uses from 16 December 2028.
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The delegated act is now subject to scrutiny by the European Parliament and the Council.
If neither institution objects, it will be published in the Official Journal and will apply from 16 December 2026.
