Reducing harmful chemicals
Chemicals of Mutual Concern (CMCs) are harmful chemicals present in the Great Lakes, which can have a negative effect on aquatic ecosystems, habitats and biodiversity. Some CMCs are persistent and can build up in the food web, exposing humans to potentially harmful chemicals through fish consumption.
In 2016, the Governments of Canada and the United States designated eight CMCs under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement:
- Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD)
- Long-Chain Perfluorinated carboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs)
- Mercury
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
- Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)
- Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
- Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
- Short-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (SCCPs)
Through the Canada–Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, we work with the Province of Ontario and other domestic partners on specific research, monitoring, surveillance and risk management actions related to these and other pollutants of concern. All designated CMCs are listed as toxic substances in Canada. It is forbidden (with limited exceptions) to manufacture, use or import these chemicals in order to reduce their release into the environment.
Through the Freshwater Action Plan, we are creating partnerships that will help reduce the release of CMCs to the Great Lakes from Canadian sources by providing funding for partner-led projects that promote innovative, action-focused approaches to reduce the releases of CMCs.