Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are chemical substances that are harmful to humans and exist in or accumulate within the bodies of animals and plants, and circulate in the natural environment over extended periods. POPs are naturally occurring or synthetic organic pollutants characterized by persistence, bioaccumulation, semi-volatility, and high toxicity. POPs include pesticides, industrial chemicals, and by-products unintentionally generated during industrial processes. These pollutants can travel long distances through various environmental media (air, water, organisms), crossing borders and affecting human health and ecosystems even in areas where POPs were never used or produced, causing significant global harm.

PAHs Testing

Phthalates is a general term for compounds that result from the reaction of phthalic anhydride and alcohol. Such substances are mainly employed as plasticizers making plastics and rubber more pliable. They are widely used in electronic and electrical equipment (EEE), toys, coatings, inks, garments, packaging materials, detergents, lubricants, and personal care articles. But when the concentration of phthalates exceeds a certain level, it may disrupt the endocrine system of human bodies, bringing harm to the development and health of children.

Recently, the State Administration for Market Regulation (Standardization Administration of China) issued the 23rd announcement of 2024, approving the release of 20 new mandatory national standards and one amendment to an existing mandatory standard. Among them is the mandatory national standard for the watch industry, GB 44702-2024 "Regulations on the Limit of Harmful Substances in Watch Components in Direct Contact with Human Skin," which will be implemented starting October 1, 2025. All relevant units need to pay close attention to the content of the new standard to ensure that their products comply with the national requirements.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) have emerged as a global concern due to their widespread use and persistent nature in the environment. These chemicals, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are under increasing scrutiny by regulatory bodies and environmental organizations worldwide. Our upcoming free webinar will delve into the complexities of PFAS, focusing on the latest regulatory updates, testing methodologies, and mitigation strategies. Join us to gain a comprehensive understanding of why PFAS have become a focal point in environmental safety and public health discussions globally.

On November 27, 2023, the State Administration for Market Regulation and the Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China released the mandatory national standard GB 18585-2023 "Indoor Decoration Materials - Limitation of Harmful Substances in Wallpapers," replacing GB 18585-2001. The new standard will officially be implemented starting December 1, 2024.

On November 27, 2023, the State Administration for Market Regulation and the Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China released the mandatory national standard GB 18585-2023 "Indoor Decoration Materials - Limitation of Harmful Substances in Wallpapers," replacing GB 18585-2001. The new standard will officially be implemented starting December 1, 2024.

As battery technology rapidly evolves and finds widespread application, the EU has introduced new battery regulations (2023/1542) aimed at enhancing the environmental and safety standards of battery products. The regulation includes a series of requirements such as control of hazardous substances, carbon footprint, CE conformity assessment, labeling requirements, and due diligence, with phased implementation.

On August 1, 2024, the European Quality Council for Medicines and Healthcare (EQDM) announced the release of the second edition of the technical guide "Metals and Alloys used in Food Contact Materials and Articles 2024," which will replace the previous CM/Res (2013) 9 version.

On June 25, 2024, the State Administration for Market Regulation (Standardization Administration of the People's Republic of China) approved the release of the mandatory national standard GB 18584-2024 "Limits of Harmful Substances in Furniture". This standard specifies the limits for harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylene, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), migratable harmful elements, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, decomposable aromatic amine dyes, radioactive nuclei, dimethyl fumarate, polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in different types of furniture, along with the criteria for test results. This standard will replace GB 18584-2001 and GB 28481-2012, and will officially come into effect on July 1, 2025.