CIAC Statement Releases Statement on PFAS Regulations

March 05, 2025

The Chemistry Industry Association (CIAC) and its members have been stalwart supporters of the federal Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) and its Chemicals Management Plan since its inception nearly 20 years ago.  

“Canada’s chemistry sector is a strong proponent of the Chemicals Management Plan,” said Greg Moffatt, President and CEO of CIAC. “For 40 years, our sector has led the journey towards safe, responsible, and sustainable chemical manufacturing through its U.N.-recognized sustainability initiative, Responsible Care®. We will be sharing advice with governments on behalf of our members as part of this important consultation process.” 

CIAC believes that Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are critical to a modern way of life. Our members support the government’s science-based decision to exclude fluoropolymers from the class of fluorinated chemistries that are under review. This subclass of fluorinated substances is distinct from other fluorinated substances and should be examined differently.   

The remaining fluorinated substances are essential for many industrial sectors from electric vehicles to pharmaceuticals to cellular phones. These substances also remain crucial for safety as they are key to producing fire suppressants and fire retardants. In many cases there are no known alternatives to these substances. “We must ensure that the equipment our first responders deploy at industrial facilities remains as safe and effective as possible,” continued Moffatt. 

CIAC believes any future regulations must focus on substances which are intentionally added for an intended effect. Similarly, we must ensure that regulations apply to substances and products that are measurable by Canadian operators.  

CIAC will share the proposed Risk Management timetable with its members and actively participate in discussions on how to best address the identified exposures of concern.