Should These 6,604 Chemicals in Plastics Be Prioritized for Safety Review?
Official title: Science approach document on the prioritization of chemicals in plastics
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 feedback on whether the science is sound. This could shape which chemicals get assessed first under Canada's environmental protection laws.
Why This Matters
Plastics are everywhere—food packaging, toys, medical devices. Some chemicals in them may be harmful. This consultation decides which ones get studied first. If you care about what's in the products your family uses, this is your chance to weigh in on the government's priorities.
What Could Change
The government may use this scientific approach to decide which chemicals in plastics get formally assessed for health and environmental risks. Substances flagged as priorities could face restrictions, labelling requirements, or bans. This framework could also be applied to future chemical reviews beyond plastics.
Key Issues
- Is the scientific approach for identifying hazardous chemicals in plastics sound?
- Are the right indicators being used to assess hazard and exposure potential?
- Should this approach be used for future chemical prioritization?
How to Participate
- Review the science approach document to understand how chemicals in plastics are being prioritized.
- Learn more about chemical substances on the Canada.ca Chemical Substances website.
- Submit your written comments by email to substances@ec.gc.ca, citing 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.