John,

Meaningful action on plastic pollution in Canada is at risk.

The Chemistry Industry Association of Canada (CIAC) recently urged the government not to regulate plastics under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), arguing that labelling plastics as toxic would be bad for business. But that is the point! We need to reduce the amount of single-use plastic being produced, used and disposed of in our landfills and the environment. Recycling won’t get us out of this mess.

Earlier this year, the federal government released its draft assessment of plastic pollution. It concluded that plastics, especially packaging and single-use plastics, cause considerable harm to plants and animals.

A substance is placed on CEPA’s Toxic Substance List when it’s in the environment in a quantity that has immediate or long-term negative effects. The devastating impacts of plastic pollution are seen everywhere: damaging ecosystems, harming wildlife and choking waterways. And the implications for human health are still unknown.

We can’t let the chemical industry win. CEPA is the legislative tool that would allow the federal government to regulate plastic production, use, and disposal. Without the listing, meaningful action on plastic won’t be possible. 

Canada must follow through on its commitment to eliminate plastic waste. It can’t cave to the demands of the chemical industry.

Join us and tell Minister Wilkinson that action on plastic pollution can’t wait.

With gratitude,

Ashley Wallis
Program Manager, National Plastics

P.S. If you are able, we hope you will consider making a donation to help support our campaign. Thanks in advance for all your help!