Government updates overview of Chemicals Management Plan

• Why the CMP Exists: The Government of Canada created the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) to protect human health and the environment by assessing chemicals used in Canada and by taking action on chemicals found to be harmful.
• What the CMP Does: In 2006, the Government of Canada completed a triage of some 3,000 chemicals that had been in commercial use during the previous two decades. That triage process identified 4,300 substances for further attention. The goal of the CMP is to address all 4,300 of those substances by 2020.
  
• Risk Assessment: CMP risk assessors conduct scientific evaluations to identify potential environmental and health risks from the generation, transportation, use and disposal of substances currently in commerce. Prior to the introduction of substances new to Canada, the Government assesses and, when necessary, manages any potential risks to Canadians and their environment.
• Risk Management: The CMP addresses risks posed by substances by utilizing a variety of regulatory instruments and management tools authorized under a range of federal laws, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, the Food and Drugs Act, the Pest Control Products Act, and others.

CWWA monitors the activities and substances examined under this program. With a strong focus on industrial and agricultural chemicals the impacts have been minimal, although any programs and legislation that reduce the chemical burden on water sheds is beneficial to the sector as a whole. CWWA will continue to monitor this program and alert members as necessary.