Canada Addresses Environmental Risks from by Thallium Compounds

In a major move to protect the environment, the Canadian government has established comprehensive risk management strategies for thallium and its compounds, highlighting the significant risks they pose to the environment, especially to aquatic ecosystems. This decision follows the definitive findings released on March 30, 2024, which confirmed the preliminary assessment from 2020 that thallium compounds meet the harmful criteria under Section 64 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA).

Final Assessment Under CEPA: A Call for Regulation

The final assessment is a critical part of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, focusing on thallium and its compounds that are listed on the Domestic Substances List and those identified for further evaluation. This assessment has led to a recommendation by the Ministers of the Environment and Health that these substances be considered for inclusion in Part 2 of Schedule 1 to CEPA, which represents a step towards strict regulatory management.

Proposed Risk Management Approach: Stakeholder Engagement

In response to the conclusions of the assessment, the government has released a Proposed Risk Management Approach document on the Canada.ca website. This initiative is intended to foster dialogue with stakeholders on the development of regulations or tools to implement prevention or control measures against the identified risks of thallium compounds, while underscoring a commitment to environmental protection.

Comprehensive Strategy Under the Chemicals Management Plan 

The strategy addresses the environmental impact of all forms of thallium, including elemental thallium and its compounds that can release thallium into the environment. This comprehensive approach is part of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP), which aims to reduce environmental exposure and potential harm from these substances.

Existing and International Risk Management Practices

The document also outlines current risk management practices, such as the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations under the Fisheries Act, which includes thallium monitoring. Additionally, it highlights the Environmental Code of Practice for Metal Mines and emission standards for iron ore pelletizing facilities, which contribute to the effective management of the environmental impact of thallium. International actions in the United States and the European Union provide a global perspective on thallium risk management efforts, and underscore the universal recognition of the need for strong environmental protection measures.

Call for Public and Stakeholder Participation

As the Canadian government moves forward with its proposed risk management plan for thallium and its compounds, it is encouraging public and stakeholder participation. By seeking comments and additional information, the government aims to ensure informed decision-making in its environmental protection efforts, reflecting a collaborative approach to addressing the public health and environmental challenges posed by thallium compounds to. The deadline for submitting information or additional studies on thallium is May 29, 2024.