If you’ve just come across the term POPS (Persistent Organic Pollutants) on our website or elsewhere on the internet you may be wondering what the acronym means. POPS are certain chemicals that take a very long time to break down. As such, they can cause harm to the environment if they aren’t identified and disposed of appropriately.
They are typically found in the fire retardants contained in older upholstery. For example, items such as sofas, armchairs and office chairs will often contain POPS. It’s also worth noting that all furniture made after 2019 doesn’t contain POPS.
As of 1st January 2023, new compliance procedures have come into effect and this means that many items containing higher levels of Persistent Organic Pollutants must now be incinerated.