EU Expands POPs Restrictions: Chlorpyrifos, MCCPs, and Long-Chain PFCAs Heading for Annex I

The European Commission published three Draft Delegated Regulations on November 21, 2025, proposing to add chlorpyrifos, medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs), and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (C9–C21 PFCAs) to Annex I of the EU POPs Regulation. Once adopted, these substances will face blanket prohibitions on manufacturing, placing on the market, and use, with only limited exemptions.​

Linked to Stockholm Convention

These proposals implement decisions from the Stockholm Convention's 12th Conference of the Parties (April–May 2025), where parties agreed to add all three substances to Annex A for global elimination. The EU is now aligning its domestic regulations with these international commitments.​

Current Regulatory Status

• Chlorpyrifos has been banned in the EU since January 2020 due to neurotoxicity concerns, so this listing formalizes an existing prohibition.​
• MCCPs are already designated as Substances of Very High Concern under REACH (since 2021), used in metalworking fluids and plasticizers. The new restrictions will impose near-total bans with time-limited exemptions for aerospace, medical devices, and polymers.​
• Long-chain PFCAs build on existing restrictions—some PFAS like PFOA were listed under POPs in 2019, while broader consumer product restrictions take effect in October 2026. This proposal extends comprehensive bans across the entire C9–C21 chain range.​

Have Your Say: Public Consultation Until December 19, 2025

Stakeholders can submit feedback on each substance separately:

• Long-chain PFCAs (C9–C21): Consultation link
• MCCPs: Consultation link
• Chlorpyrifos: Consultation link

Adoption is expected in Q2 2026