What are POPs in upholstered furniture, and why are they dangerous?

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are poisonous chemical substances that break down slowly and get into food chains as a result.

The manufacture, sale and use of products containing POPs is now banned. And we now have to be very careful when collecting items that could release POPs into the atmosphere.

What items might have POPs in them?

POPs have in the past been used in upholstered furniture like:

• Sofas and armchairs
• Sofa beds and futons
• The upholstered parts of kitchen and dining room chairs
• Stools and footstools
• Home office chairs
• Bean bags, floor and sofa cushions

We only need to be concerned if these items are damaged (therefore, if there is a risk of the POPs in them leaking into the environment).

What do I have to do if I want to report a fly tip containing upholstered furniture?

If the upholstered furniture in the fly tip is damaged or ripped in any way, you MUST tell us when you report your fly tip.

However, if the upholstered parts of your item are undamaged, you can simply go ahead and report your fly tip without worry.

Why is it important to do this?

We have a legal duty to protect our staff, or anyone else who deals with your item during disposal, and the environment.

Thank you for helping us.