Environment Canada and the Canadian Marine Manufacturing Association fast track the introduction of cleaner engines in Canada

Toronto, Ontario — January 17, 2000 — Ms. Paddy Torsney, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and Member of Parliament for Burlington, Ontario, on behalf of Federal Environment Minister David Anderson, announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Marine Spark Ignition Engine Exhaust Emission Standards between Environment Canada and the Canadian Marine Manufacturers Association (CMMA) at the 42^nd Toronto International Boat Show.

The MOU is a voluntary program between Environment Canada, recreational marine engine manufacturers and the CMMA to fast track the early introduction of cleaner engines into Canada. Once the new Canadian Environmental Protection Act,(CEPA 1999) is proclaimed in force later this Spring, the Government of Canada will have the authority to regulate emissions from off-road engines and the industry will be prepared for the development of regulations.

"This agreement sets new standards that equipment suppliers have agreed to meet" said Minister Anderson. "The future lies in new technologies that reduce pollution and increase engine efficiency" he added.

This voluntary program is designed to offer immediate environmental benefits for Canadians by facilitating the introduction of engines designed to meet United States federal emissions standards into Canada.

The agreement covers outboard engines and personal watercraft engines (PWC). Under its terms, engine manufacturers have voluntarily committed to supply these cleaner engines in Canada, starting with the 2001 model year. Participating companies will also cover all new 2001 and later model-year engines with an emissions warranty.

"The responsibility for clean air lies with all of us and this initiative is but a first step in reducing emissions from this sector" said Minister Anderson. "We will continue to take strong action on a broad range of pollution sources to protect the health of all Canadians" he added. Minister Anderson will travel to Washington later this week to meet with senior U.S. Government officials to discuss ways both countries can take action to improve air quality and protect human health.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and the CMMA count more than 1,500 companies as their members and provide approximately 80% of the marine products used by recreational boaters and fishermen in Canada and the United States.

The CMMA's mandate is to focus on issues that are important and critical to the overall health and growth of its members within Canada. The CMMA is involved in the public education of consumers of recreational marine products.

This agreement is part of the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthen environmental protection, protect human health and ensure that the Government of Canada maintains and enhances the quality of life for all Canadians as outlined in the 1999 Speech from the Throne.

Related documents:

• Marine engine Memorandum of Understanding
  [backgrounder, 2000-01-17]
• Memorandum of Understanding - Marine Spark-Ignition Engine Exhaust Emissions Standards [backgrounder, 2000-01-17]
• Canadian Marine Manufacturers Association
  [backgrounder, 2000-01-17]
• Canadian Marine Manufacturers Association Website
  [Information collection]