On May 2, 2025, during the 12th Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention, member states passed a resolution to include the toxic pesticide chlorpyrifos and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs) in the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) control list. The latter belongs to the family of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). According to the convention, the production of these two substances is theoretically banned globally starting from January 1, 2026. However, the resolution includes a special exemption period of five years, primarily aimed at the firefighting foam manufacturing sector. Meeting documents can be accessed through the BRS official website.
Main Points of the Meeting:
1. Addition of Two Major Controlled Substances
- Long-chain Perfluorocarboxylic Acids (LC-PFCAs)
The resolution includes their salts and related compounds in Annex A of the convention, and a corresponding action plan is approved:
- The Secretariat is required to compile a reference list of controlled substances.
- Parties are urged to refer to the Technical Guidelines on Alternatives developed by the Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee (POPRC).
- Chlorpyrifos
Included in Annex A of the control list with conditional exemptions.
2. Special Exemption Approved for South Korea
The conference formally approved South Korea's application, allowing the continued use of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) in fixed/mobile firefighting systems for suppressing vapor from oil and extinguishing liquid fuel fires (Class B fires), with the exemption extended until June 2, 2030.
Industry Shock: Exemption Clauses Spark Fierce Controversy
The International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) criticizes the conference decisions as contrary to scientific consensus, weakening review mechanisms and protecting the interests of chemical companies, deviating from the original intent of the convention. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) warns of the dangerous precedent set by the chlorpyrifos exemption and the concern over UV-328 UV absorbers, and looks forward to strengthening human rights protection cooperation with related conventions. The Global Firefighters Union (UFU) condemns the decision to allow the extended use of fluorinated firefighting foams, viewing it as neglecting firefighter life safety and expressing their commitment to defending the health rights of firefighters.
This meeting was held from April 28 to May 9 in Geneva, concurrently with the conferences of the parties to the Basel Convention and the Rotterdam Convention, highlighting the urgency of comprehensive management of chemicals and waste. Analysts point out that the synergy of the three conventions aims to strengthen transboundary pollution management, but the "loopholes" in the exemption clauses also reflect the struggle between economic interests and public health. As the 2026 ban approaches, how countries balance industry transition and social protection will become a new challenge in global environmental governance.
Further Information
