This research identified key challenges and recommendations to address persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and related chemicals in waste plastic articles in Ireland. The findings outline ways to improve the effectiveness of hand-held XRF spectrometers to provide a faster, less expensive way of checking whether waste articles comply with limits on brominated POPs.
Key outputs:
- The research provides the first data on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and chlorinated organophosphate esters (Cl-OPEs) in the Irish waste stream;
- These data can help inform choices on materials used in furniture e.g., mattresses, buggies and car seats for children;
- Concentrations and limit value exceedances for brominated POPs in Irish waste have either declined or remained similar since 2015–2016.