Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are poisonous chemicals that break down slowly and get into the food chain, harming the environment and our health.

Waste that contains POPs is a particular concern. The EU therefore sets concentration limits for these chemicals, which it reviews regularly to reflect the latest research.

With this initiative, the Commission is once again reviewing the limits to:

• ensure that such waste is managed in an environmentally sound way
• achieve safer recycling.