Guidelines on best available techniques and best environmental practices for the recycling and waste disposal of articles containing polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) listed under the Stockholm Convention
Scope: The Convention prohibits the use of listed polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) (hexabromodiphenyl ether and heptabromodiphenyl ether and tetrabromodiphenyl ether and pentabromodiphenyl ether) but contains a time‐limited exemption for the recycling of articles that may contain PBDEs and the use and final disposal of articles manufactured from such recycling. However, recycling and final disposal have to be carried out in an environmentally sound manner and should not lead to the recovery of PBDEs for the purpose of their reuse. Furthermore, in 2011, the COP adopted a decision that encourages Parties to implement recommendations on the elimination of listed PBDEs from the waste stream, that call for the elimination of PBDEs from recycling streams as swiftly as possible. The objective of this guidance document is to assist Parties in developing strategies for complying with the obligations under the Convention relative to the recycling and waste disposal of articles containing BDEs, and implementing the recommendations of the COP.
Main target audience: Staff responsible for developing management plans for the recycling and waste disposal of PBDEs and technical staff involved in their implementation.