2025-May-12
GBA Urges Stronger Action on PFAS Regulations
PFAS, or “forever chemicals”, are a class of approximately 15,000 synthetic chemicals used to make products that resist water, oil, grease and heat, including makeup, stain-proof furniture, outdoor gear, and firefighting foam. These compounds do not break down in the environment and have been linked to various health issues, including kidney and liver damage, thyroid disease, reproductive problems, and cancer.
The government will add PFAS to the CEPA’s register of toxic chemicals within two months and consultations are planned for 2027 to reduce PFAS use in consumer goods. This is a significant step in addressing the environmental and health concerns around PFAS, but there is more work to be done. GBA has sent a letter to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada expressing support for the recent designation of PFAS under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, however, GBA is calling for more comprehensive and urgent action to reduce PFAS exposure in both people and ecosystems.