One of the lessons you learn early if you are involved in the environmental compliance world is that just because something isn’t regulated today, doesn’t mean it won’t be regulated tomorrow.
Over a year ago, we shared with you the forthcoming changes regarding microbeads in Canada, “Legislating Changes in Microbead Use in Canada.” Microbeads were once not only permissible, but were widely used in consumer products, such as facial scrubs and toothpastes. Now microbeads are a Schedule 1 Toxic Substance in Canada, and their use in consumer products will be banned.
The anticipated regulations were published on November 5, 2016 (Canada Gazette, Microbead in Toiletries Regulations). According to the Canada Gazette notice, “These Regulations come into force on January 1, 2018.”
Environmental Concerns of Microbeads
There have been several concerns related to microbeads… not just in Canada, but around the world. For example, while the “spent” microbeads typically go down drains, into sanitary sewers, and ultimately to the local publically-owned treatment works, a small percent of the beads slip through the treatment process and are discharged into lakes, rivers, oceans, etc.
The beads that make it to environment will behave differently depending on size, density, etc. Some beads, according to at least one study, will absorb Persistent Organic Pollutants (see “Transport of persistent organic pollutants by microplastics in estuarine conditions”).
Other studies conclude that microbeads will persist in both the water, and sediments and can be consumed by avian to benthic species. You can read a more detailed assessment in the publication by Environment and Climate Change Canada, Microbeads – A Science Summary.
This regulation certainly has not come as a surprise to anyone tracking this issue. It is, however, a reminder that environmental regulations are dynamic. And for the growing number of companies who are regulated, it is increasingly important to monitor the changing regulatory landscape.
If you have questions regarding an environmental compliance, assessment, or remediation issue, please contact Christopher Paré, P. Geo. (cpare@dragun.com) at 519-979-7300, ext 114.