PBT (Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic) and vPvB (very Persistent and very Bioaccumulative) are classifications used to identify substances that may pose significant long-term risks to human health and the environment.
- Persistent (P): Substances that degrade very slowly and remain in the environment for extended periods.
- Bioaccumulative (B): Substances that build up in the tissues of living organisms and may accumulate through the food chain.
- Toxic (T): Substances that can cause adverse effects to human health or the environment.
vPvB substances are those that are very persistent and very bioaccumulative, making them particularly concerning because they remain in the environment for long periods and can accumulate to high levels in living organisms.
Under the KKDIK Regulation, PBT and vPvB substances are subject to enhanced assessment and risk management due to their potential for long-term environmental and health impacts.