ECCC: Draft Science Assessment of Plastic Pollution Now Available

"Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Minister of Health, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, published the Draft Science Assessment of Plastic Pollution, which sheds light on the extent of the plastic pollution problem in Canada.
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The Assessment confirms that larger plastic items like bags and straws can physically harm animals and negatively affect their habitat. Wildlife worldwide are injured or die when they mistake plastic for food or become entangled. The report also highlights microplastic pollution, noting evidence of negative effects on animals and the environment and uncertainties regarding the potential for effects on humans, which require more research. That is why, the Government of Canada will further invest in research that will help expand our understanding of the impacts of plastic. Scientists are invited to apply for funding."

“Science confirms that plastic pollution is everywhere and is negatively impacting our environment. This assessment will inform our decisions as our government follows through on our commitment to ban harmful single-use plastics as soon as 2021 because Canadians expect us to.”
– The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

"This draft science assessment of plastic pollution will help inform the Government of Canada’s actions and policies as it follows through on its commitment to ban harmful single-use plastics. The Government is working to have new regulations in place as early as 2021, where supported by scientific evidence and warranted.
The Draft Science Assessment of Plastic Pollution will be published on January 31, 2020, in Part I of the Canada Gazette for a 60-day public comment period. Public comments will inform the final science assessment."

Read the Press Release Here