EU Commission Implements Restrictions on Lead in PVC Products to Safeguard People and the Environment

Europe: The European Commission has announced that it will be implementing previously discussed restrictions on the use of PVC in finished products to safeguard people and the environment from the toxic effects of lead, within the framework of the REACh chemicals legislation.

Starting soon, new rules in Brussels will forbid the use of lead in PVC products that are sold in the European market, regardless of whether they are imported or locally produced. This will particularly impact the construction industry exports from non-EU countries, which often contain lead in products such as window profiles, pipes, tubes made from PVC, wires, and cables.

The EU Commission has announced its expectations to curb up to 8.4 tonnes of lead emissions yearly through implementing restrictions. The new rules aim to establish a "level-playing field" between EU-manufactured PVC products, which have prohibited the use of lead since 2015, and imported articles.

According to the new regulations, the EU has permitted the sale and use of recycled rigid PVC items for a specific period to promote recycling, leading to a reduction of approximately 1.5 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. However, to ensure safe recycling practices, such products must be covered entirely with a layer that is free of lead to avoid any inadvertent exposure to lead, stated the EU governing body.

During a REACh committee session in December 2022, the proposed changes were presented to the member states, who have now given their approval. The European Parliament and the Council have subsequently approved the binding measures in the recent month.

In compliance with the Chemical Strategy for Sustainability and European Green Deal objectives, the European Commission has announced its plan to partner with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to develop initiatives aimed at limiting environmental and human exposure to lead.