ECCC announced that updated federal regulations on certain toxic substances will come into effect on June 30, 2026

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Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has announced that updated federal regulations on certain toxic substances will come into effect on June 30, 2026. 

The new rules replace the existing 2012 regulations and further restrict the manufacture, use, sale, import, and export of several substances commonly associated with persistent environmental and health concerns, including PFAS-related chemicals (“forever chemicals”) and certain flame retardants. 

What this means for businesses and organizations: 

  • Some substances that were already restricted will face tighter controls. 
  • New substances have been added to the prohibited list. 
  • Certain exemptions are available temporarily to allow industry time to transition to alternatives. 
  • Businesses that still require limited use of some substances may need to apply for a federal permit. 
  • Laboratories using these substances for research or analysis purposes will have additional reporting requirements beginning June 30, 2026. 
  • Some substances will also become subject to new export controls under federal law. 

Permit applications: 
Organizations needing temporary authorization to continue specific activities involving certain substances must apply through ECCC’s Regulatory Services Platform between July 1 and July 30, 2026. 

Who should pay attention: 
This update may be particularly relevant for organizations involved in: 

  • manufacturing 
  • importing/exporting 
  • plastics and chemicals 
  • electronics 
  • flame-retardant materials 
  • industrial products 
  • environmental testing or laboratory work 

Members are encouraged to review their products, supply chains, and operations to determine whether these changes may apply to them. 

More information: 

Questions can also be directed to ECCC at: 

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