Inventory of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants whose use is restricted in industrial production in line with the Stockholm Convention due to their persistence and toxicity. Some congeners were restricted in 2009, while the decaBDE restriction entered into force in 2017. Selected plastic products containing PBDEs are still widely used and may potentially impact human health and the environment. This paper analyses the presence of PBDEs in electric/electronic equipment (EEE), transport vehicles and related waste in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2020. The methodology used by the Stockholm Convention Secretariat was used to estimate the quantity of PBDEs at the national level. It has been estimated that most of the PBDEs come from old transport vehicles still in use (4724 kg) and EEE in stock (10476 kg). CRT-monitors, that are part of TV or computer devices, and inadequate disposal of old vehicles have been identified as significant environmental threats in B&H related to PBDE contamination. This research has been conducted within the framework of the project titled 'Environmentally Sound Management of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in Industrial and Hazardous Waste Sectors in Bosnia and Herzegovina', implemented by UNDP and financed by the Government of Sweden.