Research and analysis

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs): challenges for the water environment

The sources of PBDEs and pathways into the environment, amounts in the water environment and restrictions of use.

• From: Environment Agency
• Published: 22 October 2021
• Last updated: 21 November 2025 — See all updates

Applies to England

Documents

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs): challenges for the water environment

ODT, 1.69 MB

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Details

This report describes:

• the sources of some PBDEs
• pathways of PBDEs into the water environment
• measurements of levels in the water environment and the trends that have been identified

• control measures for PBDEs

Published 22 October 2021

Last updated 21 November 2025 + show all updates

1. 21 November 2025

   Added the 2025 updated report ' Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs): challenges for the water environment.

2. 22 October 2021

   First published.