Amidst global environmental priorities, Canada’s Updated Federal Plastics Registry is actively combating plastic pollution. With its vast landscapes and abundant natural resources, safeguarding the environment against the perils of plastic pollution is imperative. Plastic pollution poses a multifaceted threat to ecosystems, wildlife, and human health n 2019, Canadians threw away 4.4 million tonnes of plastic waste, of which only nine per cent of it was recycled
In alignment with Canada’s Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste and in accordance with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA),), the Government of Canada has introduced a new Federal Plastics Registry through a notice in the Canada Gazette. This registry, spanning from 2024 to 2026, is designed to enhance transparency and accountability throughout the plastic supply chain, from production to disposal. The Federal Plastics Registry is a crucial advancement in the fight against plastic pollution, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and enact significant change, thereby aiding nationwide efforts to reduce plastic pollution.
What’s Changing?
The definition of “plastic” encompasses a wide array of materials derived from synthetic polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), and others. These materials are extensively utilized across various sectors including packaging, construction, manufacturing, and consumer goods. Commodities affected under the new law include various product types such as food and beverage containers, packaging for hazardous materials, electronic equipment, tires, construction materials, textiles, and more.
Companies within the plastic industry, including resin manufacturers, service providers, and producers of plastic products, are now mandated to provide the Minister of the Environment with detailed data on the lifecycle of plastics in Canada. This requirement aims to capture a comprehensive overview of plastic usage, tracing its journey from production through to disposal.
Key Dates and Reporting Requirements
The data obligations will include information on plastic production, distribution, usage, and disposal.
Reporting Deadlines:
- Information pertaining to the 2024 calendar year shall be provided no later than September 29, 2025.
- Information pertaining to the 2025 calendar year shall be provided no later than September 29, 2026.
- Information pertaining to the 2026 calendar year shall be provided no later than September 29, 2027.
This means that record keeping for 2024 should already be in progress in order to retain the information required to complete the submission in 2025. The information to be submitted will include administrative information and the identity and quantity of plastics manufactured, imported, or placed on the market in Canada. Additionally, information about the diversion and disposal of plastic products must be provided where applicable. Schedule 5 details the specific information to be reported for each year. The 2024 reporting requirements are lighter and they increase in subsequent years, so be sure that you are collecting and submitting all the necessary information.
Transition and Support:
In the latter half of 2024, companies will be granted access to the Federal Plastics Registry IT system, streamlining the transition process and enabling stakeholders to acquaint themselves with the updated requirements. Additionally, the Government of Canada is in the process of developing a guidance document to assist obligated entities in understanding and complying with the reporting obligations to the Registry.
Objectives, Implications, and Compliance
The Federal Plastics Registry aims to gather standardized data on plastic usage and disposal, aiding policymakers, environmental agencies, and the public in combating plastic pollution and promoting sustainability. It serves as a crucial tool for informed decision-making and evidence-based policy formulation.
Businesses in the plastic sector are now required to adhere to new reporting requirements to maintain environmental integrity and avoid legal consequences. Proactive engagement with guidance and integration into the Registry’s IT system is encouraged for compliance. This will ensure that businesses accurately report their plastic usage and disposal practices, and contribute to the overarching goals of transparency and accountability.
Canada’s commitment to transparency and accountability in plastic regulation signals a shift towards sustainability. Embracing these changes will lead to a greener future, with mandatory reporting fostering transparency and accountability. Compliance with these regulations is essential for businesses to align with Canada’s environmental objectives and contribute to global efforts to combat plastic pollution.
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