Research

Through scientific research, we can evaluate the impact of toxics on the environment and human health, determine acceptable risk levels of exposure and monitor changes to the environment over time. Scientists also look for ways to minimize risk associated with exposure to contaminants as they search for explanations and alternatives. Without this knowledge, we could not know when to set limits on the use of a substance, what limit to set, how to clean up problems or how to replace the substance with another that has less and preferably no damaging qualities.

Technology / Development

Research can identify ways to reduce or avoid the use of substances that may have a harmful effect on the environment.

• Environment Canada scientists have been exploring the application of Microwave-Assisted Process (MAPTM) technologies, which reduce toxic and greenhouse gas pollution. Licence agreements have been signed with CanAmera (industrial-scale, liquid phase extraction of canola oil); Shimadzu Corporation, Japan (laboratory-scale gas-phase extraction for analytical sample preparation) and SAIC Canada (large-scale, liquid-phase extraction for remediation of contaminated soils).
   
• Fuel additives, fuel catalysts and hydrogen generators are being sold to increase fuel efficiency and decrease consumption. Of those tested by the Environmental Technology Centre, only two showed potential for reducing exhaust emissions: a catalyst-muffler combination and a technique for preheating the catalyst for faster light-off. Both concepts are in the patenting process.

Classification of Substances

Central to CEPA 1999 is the categorization of some substances as toxic. Solid scientific research is essential to the on-going process of identifying and classifying toxic substances. This work leads to the development of guidelines for the safe use of substances and to the creation of regulations to control their use, when necessary.

• Endocrine disrupting substances (EDS) interact with the endocrine systems of many species, adversely affecting growth, development or reproduction. A significant amount of research is underway concerning endocrine disrupting substances, particularly to identify substances which are not highly persistent but are still widespread in the environment: for example, substances in industrial and municipal effluents, in agricultural runoff, natural estrogens in plants (phytoestrogens) and chemicals such as alkylphenols and tributyltin and those found in some pesticides.
   
• Environment Canada's Pacific and Yukon Region, in partnership with Simon Fraser University, is conducting research to determine if the health and development of fish and crayfish are affected by stream waters that receive run-off from agricultural or urban activities. The research is assessing the presence of contaminants, for example suspected EDS, in the stream waters and identifying how fish and crayfish respond to these substances, using indicators such as the presence of ovarian tissue in male testes. This research is supported by the Region's Georgia Basin Ecosystem Initiative.

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