Publications Search Results

Toxic Substances

• ARET 4 Environmental Leaders: Voluntary Action on Toxic Substances
  This is the final report of Canada's first nationwide voluntary pollution reduction initiative, the Accelerated Reduction/Elimination of Toxics (ARET) program, which ran from 1995 to 2000. In all, 318 separate facilities, representing 171 individual corporations, stepped forward to participate in this pioneering venture. Over the entire course of the ARET program, the Canadian environment benefitted form a reduction in releases of 70 388 tonnes of toxic substances.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• ARET Environmental Leaders 3 - Update
  ARET-Accelerated Reduction/Elimination of Toxics-is a voluntary, non-regulatory program that targets 117 toxic substances, including 30 that persist in the environment and bioaccumulate in living organisms. ARET aims to achieve virtual elimination of emissions of these 30 persistent, bioaccumulative toxic substances and reduced emissions of the other 87 toxic substances to levels insufficient to cause harm. Participants included companies from eight major industrial sectors and organizations from government departments and agencies.
  
  
• Chlorinated Substances Action Plan - Progress Report 2000
  Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic chlorinated substances represent a serious threat to human health and the environment. This Action Plan is a five-part approach to eliminating or significantly reducing such substances within a set timetable, by : targeting critical uses and products; improving scientific understanding; studying public health and socio-economic effects; better informing the Canadian public; and promoting and leading international efforts.
  
  
• Code of Practice for the Reduction of Dichloromethane Emissions from the Use of Paint Strippers in Commercial Furniture Refinishing and Other Stripping Applications
  Dichloromethane, also known as methylene chloride, was assessed as toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) based on its potential to cause harm to the environment and to human health. It was concluded that current releases of dichloromethane could be sufficient to have adverse effects on some aquatic organisms and therefore harm the environment.
  
  
• Endocrine Disrupting Substances in the Environment
  This fact sheet concisely presents the endocrine system and the substances that can disrupt it in the environment. It describes the sources of these disrupting substances and how endocrine systems' normal functions can be affected. It also summarizes what research has been done in the field and Environment Canada's role in finding solutions. The fact sheet includes a list of websites leading to more information.
  
  
• Internal Quality Assurance Requirements for the Analysis of Dioxins in Environmental Samples
  A Dioxin Quality Assurance Advisory Committee (DQAAC) was established in 1990 to address the issue of accuracy and comparability of data from different laboratories. One of the main goals of this committee was to develop a common generic quality assurance protocol for dioxin analysis in support of federal programs. This report outlines those elements of a laboratory quality assurance program that are essential to reliability of dioxin data. Performance criteria by which data quality can be assessed are also established in this report.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Mercury - Federal Facilities Mercury Info-guide
  This info-guide provides guidance on developing an inventory of mercury within a federal facility; assessing the associated risks within the context of sustainable development and pollution prevention strategies. This info-guide is a summary of the following publication: Mercury-containing Product Stewardship - Manual for Federal Facilities.
  
  
• Mercury-containing Product Stewardship - Manual for Federal Facilities
  This manual provides guidance on developing an inventory of mercury within a federal facility; assessing the associated risks within the context of sustainable development and pollution prevention strategies, in addition to legal requirements; how to reduce on-site mercury through life-cycle management practices, and how to monitor and report on mercury stewarship activities and reductions achieved.
  
  
• Municipal Actions To Reduce Mercury
  Despite mercury's toxic nature, a wide range of mercury-containing products are still commercially available. These products include thermostats, thermometers, fluorescent lamps, pressure measuring devices, electrical switches and relays, and dental amalgam. This document provides guidance on how to develop a Municipal Mercury Elimination Policy and Plan that will appropriately direct efforts to reduce mercury releases. With respect to internal municipal operations, this document contains information and case studies that will help municipalities manage mercury-containing products found in municipal buildings and street lighting.
  
  
• National Inventory of Sources and Releases of Lead (1982)
  Estimates of the quantities of lead released to the environment in emissions, effluents, and solid wastes in 1982 are summarized in this report. Emissions and effluents have been classified by source, sector, and province. The data presented are estimates based on source testing data, process emission factors, and production figures.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans (PCDFs): Sources and Releases
  This report provides a preliminary overview of sources and releases of PCDDs and PCDFs in the Canadian environment. Data on concentrations of PCDDs and PCDFs in air emissions, liquid effluents, solid wastes, and chemicals in commerce are summarized and quantitative estimates of releases to the environment are developed where practical. The potential amount of PCDDs released in forest fires is estimated and major gaps in the data are identified to provide direction for future action.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Proposed Evaluation Protocol for Cement-based Solidified Wastes
  This report provides a systematic approach for determining whether cement-based solidified wastes should continue to be classified as hazardous, and what disposal/utilization scenarios would be appropriate for these wastes based on their measured characteristics. This report also develops a framework for field studies on the impact and applicability of the proposed solid waste management approach.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Recommendations for the design and operation of wood preservation facilities, 2004 - Technical recommendations document
  This document is a guidance manual that establishes best management practices for the design and operation of heavy duty wood preservation facilities. Conformance with the manual should minimize the environmental and human health effects potentially associated with heavy duty wood preservation facilities. (This document supercedes the five 1988 EPS reports EPS 2/WP/1, EPS 2/WP/2, EPS 2/WP/3, EPS 2/WP/4, and EPS 2/WP/5] and the previous version of the binder of the same name published in March 1999, available at the following address: http://www.ec.gc.ca/toxics/wood-bois/pubs/trd_e.htm
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Carbon Monoxide from Stationary Sources
  The Environment Canada reference method described in this report measures releases of carbon monoxide from stationary sources. The method is to be used in conjunction with the testing procedures described in "Reference Methods for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Particulate from Stationary Sources" (EPS 1/RM/8). This report describes the principle method, the apparatus and reagents required, the procedures to be followed, and the method for calculating concentrations of carbon monoxide.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Gaseous Hydrogen Chloride from Stationary Sources
  The Environment Canada Reference Method described in this report measures releases of gaseous hydrogen chloride from stationary sources. The method is to be used in conjunction with the procedures described in "Reference Methods for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Particulate from Stationary Sources" (EPS 1/RM/8) as well as those found in the Standard Test Methods D4327-84 and D512-81 of the American Society for Testing and Materials. This report describes the principle of the method for calculating concentrations of gaseous hydrogen chloride.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Lead in Particulate from Stationary Sources
  Methods for measuring the concentration and rate of emission of lead in particulate to the ambient air from stationary sources are discussed in this report. This reference method is to be used in conjunction with the procedures described in Reference Methods for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Particulate from Stationary Sources (EPS I/RM/8), which describes procedures for sampling of stack gases, analysis of samples, and calculation of lead concentrations in particulate.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Mercury from Mercury Cell Chlor-alkali Plants
  The Environment Canada Reference Method described in this report determines the rate of mercury emissions from mercury cell chlor-alkali plants.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Particulate from Stationary Sources
  Six test methods are presented in this report. They may be used either independently to determine certain characteristics of a gas stream, or in various combinations to determine particulate emissions. Principle, apparatus, procedures, and calculations are described for the determination of sampling site and traverse points (A) and of various characteristics of stack gases: velocity and volumetric flow rate (B), molecular weight (C), moisture content (D), and releases of particulate (E). Method F is used for calibrating the apparatus required for the tests.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Selected Semi-volatile Organic Compounds from Stationary Sources
  The Environment Canada Reference Method described in this report measures the releases of polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and other semi-volatile organic compounds from stationary sources.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Total Reduced Sulphur (TRS) Compounds from Pulp and Paper Operations
  This Environment Canada reference method is used to measure the TRS compounds released into the ambient air from stationary sources of pulp and paper operations. It is to be used in conjunction with the methods described in Reference Methods for Source Testing: Measurement of Releases of Particulate from Stationary Sources (EPS I/RM/8).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for the Determination of Adsorbable Organic Halogens (AOX) in Waters and Wastewaters
  This method was developed jointly by Environment Canada's Wastewater Technology Centre and the Pulp and Paper Research Institute of Canada (PAPRICAN). Although the method focuses on process streams and effluents from the pulp and paper industry, it is applicable to all aqueous media. Two methods for analyzing samples (the column and shaker methods) are described in detail.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for the Determination of Dibenzofuran and Dibenzo-p-Dioxin in Defoamers
  To reduce amounts of dibenzofuran (DBF) and dibenzo-p-dioxin (DBD) toxicants in pulp mill discharges, Environment Canada is developing regulations that will establish the maximum concentrations of DBF and DBD in defoamers for those applications. This report is an analytical method for determining the amount of DBF and DBD in defoamers. It will be referenced in the regulations and has been developed jointly by the Pulp and Paper Research Institute of Canada (PAPRICAN) and Environment Canada.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Reference Method for the Monitoring of Gaseous Emissions from Fossil Fuel-fired Boilers
  This Environment Canada reference method applies to measurement of emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NO_x), and carbon monoxide (CO) in the flue gases from combustion of fossil fuels in generating hot water or steam. This report describes the principle of the method, the apparatus and reagents required, the procedures to be followed, and the method for calculating concentrations.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Removal of Radium-226 from Uranium Mining Effluents: Final Report of a Joint Government-Industry Program
  An intensive process development program for removing radium-226 from uranium mining effluents was undertaken jointly by the Government of Canada and the Canadian Uranium Minings Industry from 1978 to 1980. The work was directed toward optimizing barium-radium coprecipitation, solid/liquid separation, and sludge dewatering. This is a summary of the results.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Response Techniques for the Cleanup of Sinking Hazardous Materials
  Chemicals such as aromatic organics, halogenated hydrocarbons, some organometallic compounds, and the elements bromine and mercury tend to settle or to flow near the river bottom. These sinkers may permeate the sediments if they are in a liquid form and can produce chronic toxic effects in aquatic flora and fauna. This report examines possible courses of action for dealing with this contamination including leaving it in place, removing it for treatment, recovering and disposing of it, or using in-situ physical/chemical treatment and/or isolation. Various recovery techniques and their limitations and costs are also examined.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Taking action on federal contaminated sites: An environmental and economic priority
  With the awakening of environmental consciousness over the last quarter century, Canadians have become aware of the threats posed by contaminated sites, and the Government of Canada has started cleaning up many of the worst federal contaminated sites. This booklet provides an overview of progress made in 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 on initiatives to remediate federal contaminated sites and is the first in a series of updates the Government of Canada will provide to Canadians as this environmental legacy becomes an environmental and economic opportunity.
  
  
• Toxic Contaminants in the Environment: Persistent Organochlorines (Canada's National Environmental Indicator Series)
  Toxic substances enter ecosystems by many pathways, including industrial discharges and leakage, municipal wastes, runoff from agricultural and forestry applications, and accidents. Particular concern has focused on groups of contaminants that are associated with adverse effects on wildlife and people. One notable group is persistent organochlorines. This fact sheet focuses on levels of certain of these persistent organochlorine contaminants in Double-crested Cormorant eggs.
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy
  The federal Toxic Substances Management Policy sets out a preventive and precautionary approach to dealing with substances that enter the environment and could harm the environment or human health. The key management objectives are: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that result predominantly from human activity and are persistent and bioaccumulative in the environment; and management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, throughout their entire life cycles, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment.
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Aldrin and dieldrin
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Chlordane
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - DDT
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Dioxins and furans
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Endrin
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Hexachlorobenzene
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Mirex
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Short-chain chlorinated paraffins
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports - Scientific Justification - Toxaphene
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports -Scientific Justification - Heptachlor
  The Toxic Substances Management Policy Reports outline the federal government's approach to the management of toxic substances. The policy presents a management framework based on two key objectives: virtual elimination from the environment of toxic substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and primarily the result of human activity (Track 1); and life-cycle management of other toxic substances and substances of concern, to prevent or minimize their release into the environment (Track 2).
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)
  
  
• Transport of Hazardous Wastes: Question and Answer Manual
  The Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations define hazardous waste as a product or substance that is potentially detrimental to human health and/or the environment and that requires special handling and disposal techniques to eliminate or reduce the hazard. The regulations state how wastes will be transported and classified, what documents will be carried with a waste shipment, and what safety measures will be taken when waste dangerous goods are being handled or transported. This manual answers questions most commonly asked of waste dangerous goods inspectors.
  Available from Environment Canada Selected Publications (1-800-734-3232)