Chemical Substances and Our Environment
Q: How do chemical substances get into the environment?
Chemicals can enter the environment through their production, use or disposal, and can be found in all parts of the environment--air, water, soil and living organisms.
Q: What kinds of effects do chemical substances have on the environment?
Effects on the environment are determined by the amount, type and concentration of the chemical substance, and where it is found. Many kinds and levels of chemical substances released to our air, water and soil are easily absorbed and do not pose a threat. However, some chemical substances released by accident can be very dangerous. Lower levels of some types of pollution may have no immediate effect, but can work their way into the food chain and accumulate or persist in the environment for many years.
Q: What does the Government of Canada do to protect the environment from the potential risks of chemical substances?
The Government of Canada plays a key role in protecting the environment from the risks of chemical substance under a number of laws. Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999), for instance, scientists at Health Canada and Environment Canada assess chemical substances to determine if they pose a risk to human health and/or the environment. The Government of Canada develops regulations and other measures based on the findings of these assessments.
Canada's new Chemicals Management Plan is designed to further protect the environment through new regulations under CEPA 1999 and other acts, a challenge to industry, restricted uses, accelerated re-evaluations of some older pesticides, and changes to the way we dispose of pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
While the Government of Canada plays a key role, every order of government is involved. Municipalities run programs and make rules on such pollution prevention activities as recycling. The provinces and territories govern a number of areas related to risks of chemical substances, for example, industry permits and licences.
Q: What can I do to help protect the environment from chemical risks?
Staying informed and acting responsibly are the best things you can do to protect our environment.
Information is regularly made public on the Environment Canada and Health Canada Websites, where you can find research findings and decisions about many chemical substances.
In addition to information from the Government of Canada, there are sources of information that can help with the decisions you make on a daily basis. Following the label instructions on products used around the house can help to reduce their release to the environment. Municipal waste and recycling programs provide information on proper disposal of products containing chemical substances.
For more information, please visit the Chemical Substances Portal at http://www.chemicalsubstances.gc.ca.
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