Should Manganese Compounds Be Added to Canada's Toxic Substances List?

Official title: Publication after assessment of manganese and its compounds, including those specified on the Domestic Substances List and those identified for further consideration following prioritization of the Revised In Commerce List (section 77 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999)

Closed Regulations & Permits Environment & Climate Health & Safety
The government has assessed manganese and its compounds and found they may be harmful to human health and the environment. They're proposing to add these substances to Canada's official toxic substances list, which would allow new regulations to control how they're used and released.

Why This Matters

Manganese is everywhere—in steel, batteries, fertilizers, and even drinking water. If you work in manufacturing or live near industrial sites, this could affect air and water quality in your area. The government wants to know if you think the science supports adding these substances to the toxic list.

What Could Change

If manganese compounds are added to Schedule 1 of CEPA, the government could create new regulations limiting industrial emissions and releases. Companies using manganese in manufacturing might face stricter controls. Risk management measures are already being developed.

Key Issues

  • Does the scientific evidence support concluding that manganese compounds are toxic?
  • Should manganese and its compounds be added to Schedule 1 of CEPA?
  • What risk management options should be considered?

How to Participate

  1. Review the draft assessment and risk management scope documents to understand the scientific basis for the proposal.
  2. Submit your comments by email to substances@ec.gc.ca. Cite 'Canada Gazette, Part I, October 25, 2025' in your submission.
  3. Alternatively, use Environment and Climate Change Canada's Single Window online reporting system.

Key Documents