The Parliament of the European Union passed a non-binding agreement on November 25, declaring the EU Commission should not authorise the recycling of plastics that contain the banned softener diethylhexyl phthalate (DHEP).

DEHP is often applied for softening PVC products such as footwear and floor covering. It is included in the Authorisation List (Annex XIV) under REACH regulation, which specifies that it cannot be used for unauthorised use or authorised use whose application is not submitted since 21 February 2015.

Though DEHP is banned by REACH regulation, the Commission proposes to allow the recycling of old DEHP into new PVC products. However, the Parliament of the European Union considers that DEHP may lead to male foetuses sterile due to its reproductive toxicity. So the passage of the resolution vetoed the proposal in some degree.

Undoubtedly, recycling plastics containing DEPH to produce new PVC products can cut costs for producers. However, the Parliament doubts it may lead to the entry of low-quality products to the European Union.

DEHP are banned to be used in all toys and child care articles according to REACH regulation. C&K Testing advises companies to strictly abide by requirements to ensure smooth export process.