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 method to identify which chemicals used in plastics might pose risks to human health or the environment. They've applied this approach to 6,604 substances and want feedback on their scientific methodology. This could shape which chemicals get assessed first under Canada's environmental protection laws.
Why This Matters
Plastics are everywhere—food packaging, toys, water bottles, medical devices. Some chemicals in plastics can leach into food or the environment. This consultation decides which of those 6,604 chemicals get scrutinized first. If you're concerned about what's in the products your family uses daily, this is your chance to weigh in on the government's priorities.
What Could Change
The government may adopt this scientific approach for future chemical prioritization. Chemicals flagged as high-priority could face formal risk assessments, potentially leading to restrictions or bans. The methodology could also be applied to chemicals beyond plastics.
Key Issues
- Is the scientific methodology 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 under CEPA?
How to Participate
- Review the science approach document to understand the methodology used to prioritize chemicals in plastics.
- Submit your 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.
Submit Your Input
Tips for Your Submission
- Comments may be submitted with a request for confidentiality under section 313 of CEPA, with reasons as provided under subsection 313(2).