Answers to frequently asked questions to Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD)

In May 2013 the chemical hexabromocyclododecane, or HBCD, was identified as a persistent organic pollutant (POP) under the international Stockholm Convention. This means that a worldwide ban on the sale and application of the chemical will soon become effective. For a long time HBCD was the most economically significant flame retardant used in polystyrene foam for insulation materials. We have compiled information about why the chemical will no longer be used, what transitional phases are likely to be in effect in the EU, what the alternatives are, and how to dispose of insulation materials which contain HBCD.