ECHA’s Findings On Impact Of Aromatic Brominated Flame Retardants

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The Aromatic Brominated Flame Retardants or ABFRs play a very important role in fire prevention across the various industries. These retardants are used in many products such as plastics, textiles, and electronics preventing the fire hazards. However, these chemicals posses a great threat on environment and health risks which includes bioaccumulation, endocrine disruption, and potential carcinogenic effects. Also, their persistence in the ecosystem also leads to water contamination of soil, water, and wildlife, which increases the global concerns significantly. 

European Chemicals Agency or ECHA is known for stringent regulations against the risks of chemicals and ever-evolving compliance. Hence, in its recent investigations has revealed the significant concern on health and environment caused by the non-polymeric additive ABFRs. The findings from the investigations suggest that there should be a compliance or regulatory action to be taken against these retardants to overcome their harmful impact. Hence, this blog explores the ECHA’s findings on impact of aromatic brominated flame retardants including the discoveries and alternatives.

Understanding ABFRs And Their Applications

ABFRs are used in sectors such as electronics, construction, and textiles, due to the ability to slow down fire spread. However, their environmental impact, especially at the waste stage, raises serious concerns. The ABFRs are used widely in the polymeric materials to improve the systems fire resistance. These retardants are often categorized into three major types and the are,

  • The additive ABFRs which are mixed with the polymer without the formation of chemical bonds.
  • The non-polymeric ones which have small molecules that are prone to leaching and impacting the environment. 
  • The polymeric ones which are larger and stable molecules but have lesser environmental risks.
  • Finally, the reactive ABFRs which are chemically bonded with the polymers making them have lesser impact in the environment. 

ECHA’s Key Findings On Environmental Impact

The investigation for the retardent release in the environment was studied for around 60 ABFRs which are potentially available in the EU market. The major findings of the investigation the studied materials contain non-polymeric additive ABFRs which have high-risk chances to impact environment and health due to their increased level of persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity.

Also, five substances among the studied retardants are considered highly-risk substances particularly due to their highly-risk ability. These are concerned due to their classification as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB). Finally, the around 37 retardants among the studied ones are widespread and classified under PBT. It is essential to understand 17 among the 37 are non-polymeric additives.

Waste Management – Origin

The investigation also found that a significant portion of the ABFR pollution originated from the waste, especially from the material shredding and landfill disposal. The reason for the increase in pollution is the inefficient recycling and disposal processes. Hence, ECHA stresses on the importance of eliminating the harmful additives in the value chain to prevent long-term environmental damage.

Alternatives To ABFRs

The alternatives for ABFRs exist as the non-polymeric ABFRs are hazards and they are

  • The Organophosphate Flame Retardants is widely available but possess similar risk as ABFRs
  • The non-combustible materials are also a safer alternative which eliminates the need for chemical retardants.
  • The polymeric ABFR additives are a more stable alternative reducing the risks for leaching. 

Regulatory Considerations And The Group Approach

ECHA’s investigation suggests a need for regulatory intervention. Some non-polymeric additive ABFRs are not registered under REACH yet have been detected in the environment at concerning levels. This indicates:

  1. Possible REACH registration non-compliance.
  2. Uncertainty regarding the plastic composition of imported articles.
  3. ECHA recommends a group approach in regulating ABFRs, considering the collective impact rather than assessing substances individually. This could pave the way for comprehensive restrictions to minimize environmental harm.

Future Step: 

ECHA’s findings will guide the European Commission in deciding whether to introduce restrictions on ABFRs. A potential restriction is already part of the Commission’s Restrictions Roadmap, underscoring the urgency of addressing these environmental hazards.

The use of non-polymeric additive ABFRs presents significant environmental challenges, particularly due to their persistence and toxicity. While alternatives exist, their effectiveness and safety must be carefully evaluated. Regulatory actions, improved waste management, and proactive industry measures are critical in minimizing the long-term environmental impact of ABFRs.

With growing regulatory scrutiny, industries must adapt to safer, more sustainable flame-retardant solutions, ensuring both fire safety and environmental protection. Hence, approach Sunstream for expert guidance as we offer services for REACH, conflict mineral compliance, and SDS ensuring compliance adherence in every step.