POPs stands for Persistent Organic Pollutants, a group of toxic chemical substances that remain in the environment for long periods. These pollutants do not break down naturally and can spread through air, water and wildlife. They also accumulate in living organisms, increasing the risk of exposure. Common examples include brominated flame retardants used in furniture, polychlorinated biphenyls found in older electrical equipment and PFOS used in some textiles and foams. Due to their lasting impact and toxicity, POPs are considered a serious threat to both human health and the environment.

POPs waste must be treated with care. If it is not processed correctly, harmful chemicals can be released into the environment and continue causing damage for decades. These substances have been linked to serious health issues including cancer and hormone disruption. Products like sofas, chairs, mattresses and electrical goods may contain POPs and cannot be disposed of with general waste. Landfilling or burning this material is no longer acceptable. To handle this waste stream safely and responsibly, specialist systems are needed. This is where Terex Recycling Systems can help.

Terex Recycling Systems provides complete waste processing solutions for bulky and POPs contaminated materials. Our systems are designed to safely separate and reduce this type of waste, preparing it for approved disposal routes such as high temperature incineration. We also offer integrated technologies for metal recovery and material diversion, keeping everything compliant with current and future regulations. Our installations across the UK are already helping customers meet environmental requirements while operating efficiently and safely.

The rules around POPs waste are changing quickly in the UK. The Environment Agency now requires organisations to identify, separate and treat waste containing POPs through approved disposal methods. These requirements affect local authorities, recycling operators and private waste contractors, and the deadlines are fast approaching. A real-world example of these changes in action is the installation of a dedicated POPs and bulky waste processing facility at BIFFA in Milton Keynes. Working with Terex Recycling Systems, BIFFA implemented a complete shredding and separation plant that now handles waste from local recycling centres safely and in full compliance with UK regulations. This includes the ability to divert POPs and bulky waste into separate streams and prepare them for waste-to-energy treatment. The successful outcome at BIFFA highlights how early investment in the right system can secure legal compliance, operational efficiency and long-term environmental benefits.