The proposed Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Certain Products Regulations were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on July 6, 2019. The anticipated regulations will be open for comments for a duration of 75 days, ending on September 19, 2019. The proposed Regulations also considered comments received regarding the 2013 consultation document.
Canada does not currently have regulations in place to limit volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from certain products. The proposed Regulations, to be adopted under subsection 93(1) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), will prohibit the import and manufacture of products that exceed prescribed VOC concentration limits for approximately 130 product categories and subcategories. This will allow Canada to reduce VOC emissions and meet its commitments under the Ozone Annex to the Canada-United States Air Quality Agreement.
Products that would be affected by the suggested Regulation include personal care; automotive and household maintenance products; adhesives, adhesive removers, sealants and caulks; and other miscellaneous products. These products are used by household, institutional and commercial consumers.
It is estimated that the proposed Regulations will result in 200 kt VOC emission reductions (between 2023 and 2030) and a net benefit of approximately $496 million.
For more information on how to limit your exposure to VOCs in the home, click here.
For more information on Canadian guidelines for consumer products click here.
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