Approach to nanoscale forms of substances on the domestic substances list: chapter 3

3. Proposed approach

Environment Canada and Health Canada are proposing a stepwise approach to addressing nanoscale forms of substances on the Domestic Substances List (DSL). It is important to establish a foundation of knowledge to support scientifically and technically informed decision making to advance the regulatory mandate under the act. The proposed approach follows the same guiding principles to be used in the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) going forward, including acquisition of information, evaluation of information and action on substances as required.^Footnote14 Elements of the proposed approach can also be compared to the approach used for Categorization^Footnote15 under the act as well as the creation of the In Commerce List^Footnote16 for substances in products regulated under the Food and Drugs Act. The proposed approach consists of three phases:

The following sections describe in more detail the first two phases of the proposed approach, as well as identify areas for input from stakeholders to refine and guide the development of the approach.