Should Canada's Approach to Prioritizing 6,604 Plastic-Related Chemicals Be Approved?
Official title: Publication of the approach and results of investigations for 6 604 substances specified on the Domestic Substances List
Environment Canada and Health Canada have developed a new method to identify which chemicals used in plastics might be harmful to people or the environment. They've applied this approach to over 6,600 substances and want your feedback on the science behind it. This method will help decide which chemicals get assessed first for potential health or environmental risks.
Why This Matters
Plastics are everywhere—food packaging, toys, medical devices. Some chemicals in plastics may pose health risks. This approach determines which of those 6,600+ chemicals get studied first. If you care about what's in the products you use daily, this is your chance to weigh in on how the government prioritizes safety reviews.
What Could Change
The government may adopt this scientific approach for future chemical prioritization. That means certain plastic-related chemicals could be flagged for faster assessment. Some substances might eventually face restrictions or bans if found harmful.
Key Issues
- Is the scientific approach for identifying hazardous chemicals in plastics sound?
- Are the right indicators being used to assess human health and ecological risks?
- Should this approach be used for future chemical prioritization under CEPA?
How to Participate
- Review the science approach document to understand the methodology used to assess the 6,604 substances.
- Submit your written comments by email to substances@ec.gc.ca. Cite the Canada Gazette, Part I, and the publication date (December 6, 2025).
- Alternatively, submit through Environment and Climate Change Canada's Single Window) online reporting system.