In an article published on November 25, 2015 the European Parliament (EP) announced that it has passed a non-binding resolution recommending prohibiting the recycling of plastics containing diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP, CAS 117-81-7). DEHP is a known endocrine disruptor and was widely used as a plasticizer in polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is included in the Authorization List (Annex XIV) under the regulation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). The European Commission (EC) has proposed to authorize the recycling of “old” plastics containing DEHP into new PVC products. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are concerned over the risks posed to workers’ health and stated in their resolution that “recycling should not justify the perpetuation of the use of hazardous legacy substances.” The European Council of Ministers now has to vote on the EC proposal. If no majority vote can be achieved by the Council, the EC will ultimately have to decide on the matter.
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EP (November 25, 2015). “Don’t allow recycling of plastics that contain toxic phthalate DEHP, warn MEPs.”
HEAL (November 23, 2015). “HEAL welcomes EP Committee vote on DEHP.”
Chemical Watch (November 25, 2015). “MEPs call for ban on recycled plastics containing DEHP.”
ChemSec (November 26, 2015). “Parliament votes against recycling of PVC containing DEHP.”
Plastics Europe News (November 27, 2015). “European Parliament targets DEHP.”
