The Government of Canada has published a public consultation on proposed amendments to the New Substances Notification Regulations (Chemicals & Polymers) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) 1999. The changes aim to strengthen oversight of new chemical substances and polymers entering the Canadian market. The consultation is open until 24 December 2025.
Purpose of the Proposed Amendments
• Modernize regulatory requirements for new substances and Significant New Activities (SNAs).
• Enhance environmental and human health protections through mandatory pre-notification and hazard evaluations.
• Clarify exemptions for export-only substances, R&D materials, and site-limited intermediates.
Regulatory Provisions
1. Notification Requirements
• All new chemical substances or polymers must be reported prior to manufacture or import.
• SNAs involving currently listed substances must also be notified.
2. Required Information
Manufacturers and importers must provide:
• Intended use and activity details
• Production or import volumes
• Exposure scenarios and hazard data
• Relevant environmental and health information
3. Exemptions
Certain substances may qualify for exemptions, including:
• Research & development materials
• Substances intended solely for export
• Site-limited intermediates meeting specified criteria
Target Stakeholders
• Chemical & Plastics Manufacturers introducing new formulations into Canada
• Automotive & Electronics Suppliers using innovative polymers or chemical additives
• ESG & Compliance Teams tracking regulatory obligations
• Supply Chain & Risk Managers assessing chemical substitutions and material flow
Business & Compliance Impacts
These amendments may introduce mandatory pre-notification for new substances and trigger SNA reporting for existing materials used in new applications. Organizations will need strong material tracking systems, updated inventories, and comprehensive documentation. The changes also provide opportunities to adopt safer, sustainable chemical alternatives.
Recommended Industry Actions
• Conduct Inventory Review to identify impacted chemicals or polymers
• Assess Canadian Market Use to determine notification obligations
• Prepare Data on use, hazards, volumes, and exposure scenarios
• Evaluate Material Alternatives to reduce regulatory burden
• Submit Comments during the consultation period ending 24 December 2025
This consultation marks a significant advancement in aligning Canada’s chemical management framework with global standards. Companies in chemicals, plastics, automotive, and electronics sectors should take proactive steps to ensure compliance and minimize supply chain risks.
References: Canada Notice
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