Northern Ireland Tightens Rules on Toxic PCBs: What You Need to Know

In a significant move to bolster environmental safety, Northern Ireland has introduced new regulations to accelerate the removal of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from use. These changes, part of the Environmental Protection (Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and other Dangerous Substances) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, aim to comply with updated EU standards and align with global environmental commitments.

What Are PCBs?

PCBs are synthetic chemicals once widely used in electrical equipment like transformers and capacitors due to their insulating properties. However, they are now known for their toxicity, persistence in the environment, and potential to accumulate in living organisms, posing severe health risks to both humans and wildlife. Recognizing these dangers, the UK and the EU, as parties to the Stockholm Convention, have committed to phasing out these harmful substances.

The New Regulations

The key update requires the removal of all equipment containing more than 0.005% PCBs or PCB volumes exceeding 0.05 dm³ by the end of 2025. This change is a shift from the previous regulation, which allowed such equipment to remain in use until the end of its useful life.

Why Now?

This update follows a broader EU regulation from 2019, which overhauled previous PCB-related laws to incorporate the latest scientific findings and international agreements. Northern Ireland's adjustments ensure compliance with these standards, continuing alignment under the Windsor Framework, which governs the region's adherence to certain EU rules post-Brexit.

Impact on Businesses

The regulation primarily affects industries using high-voltage electrical equipment. A consultation conducted in 2022 revealed general support for the change, with no major objections from businesses or public sector entities. The financial implications are considered manageable, given the environmental and health benefits of removing PCBs.

What’s Next?

Businesses in Northern Ireland need to prepare for the upcoming deadline by identifying and safely disposing of PCB-contaminated equipment. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has assured that these measures will not impact charities, voluntary bodies, or result in significant changes for the public sector.

Conclusion

This regulatory update is a crucial step in safeguarding public health and the environment from the lingering threat of PCBs. It underscores the region's commitment to global environmental standards and ensures Northern Ireland remains aligned with EU legislation in this critical area. Businesses are encouraged to act swiftly to meet the December 2025 deadline, contributing to a cleaner, safer environment for all.