An ongoing process for the Ontario government, goals have been made to reduce the “regulatory burden” on both manufacturers and government. Out with the old and in with the new, the government is looking to clean house of regulations that overlap and add seemingly unnecessary extra steps. These changes are part of the proposed Restoring Ontario’s Competitiveness Act 2018, which encompasses several legislative changes. These changes affect several acts, with a comment period on these changes open until January 20, 2019. This cleaning of house would include the repeal of the Toxics Reduction Act of 2009. A proposed repeal has been issued for this act, as well as all regulations that are associated with it, by December 31, 2021.
What is the Toxics Reduction Act and what were its objectives?
The act aimed to help reduce environmental pollution though a reduction in both the use and manufacturing of toxic substances; as well as educate the provincial population about these substances. Educating the population of toxicity was intended to help consumers to make informed choices on products they wish to purchase as well as their proper disposal. Consumers are also able to accept some responsibility within these preventative and precautionary measures.
What will take the place of the Toxics Reduction Act?
Despite the clear and concise goals of the Toxics Reduction Act, a more robust federal system exists for which Ontarians may rely on, saving extra time and removing some burden from manufacturers. This other system is the federal chemical management plan that provides greater insight into toxic chemicals and their presence in industry. The Government of Canada defines the Chemical Management plan (CMP) as an “initiative aimed at reducing the risks posed by chemicals to Canadians and their environment”. Similarly to the Toxics Reduction Act, the CMP strives to “take action” with regards to chemicals that have risks to the environment or the health of Canadians.
How will a Repeal of the Toxics Reduction Act affect Industry?
With a repeal of the Toxics Reduction Act, industry will see several changes. These changes are set to help reduce the degree of reporting and paperwork for industry. Further information on these effects can be found on the Health Canada notice as well as the original documentation of the Toxics Reduction Act.
When will a change happen with the Toxics Reduction Act?
A 60-day comment period has opened on the repeal of the act and its associated regulations and will close on January 20, 2019. Going forward the government hopes to abolish the act by December 21, 2021.
For more information, please do not hesitate to contact Focal Point Research Inc. We are leading Canadian regulatory and Health Canada consultants for Natural Health Products, OTC Drugs, Cosmetics, and other personal care products.
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