Persistent Organic Pollutants
An update on soft furnishings waste and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). Download our user friendly guide.
The Environment Agency (EA) has provided an update to all local authorities and waste management companies regarding waste items that could contain POPs. Specific guidance has been issued for soft furnishings including sofas, cushions, and some textiles.
On 19/12/2022 the Government confirmed the regulatory position that all waste textiles and foam in upholstered domestic seating that contain Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are banned from landfill and must be incinerated.
All UK landfill sites have been instructed to refuse these materials from 31st December 2022 and there will be greater enforcement over the compliant handling and disposal of these items. More information on how to identify if the waste you are producing contains POPs, and what to do about it, can be found on the UK government website for persistent organic pollutants pops.
As a result of this, not all Biffa facilities will be able to receive your waste, and those that can will require separation from other waste that you generate. Please check with your local waste operator as to what solutions are available to you.
In addition the updated position statements issued on the 19/12/2022 can be found here:
This is not a change in your legal requirements but an updated position on enforcement actions.
