Canada Targets PFAS: New Report and Risk Management Strategy Released

In March 2025, the Government of Canada released its long-anticipated State of PFAS Report alongside a proposed risk management approach for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This marks a major policy shift in how Canada regulates these persistent and toxic chemicals. 

Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, PFAS—excluding fluoropolymers—have been deemed toxic, with evidence showing they may enter the environment in ways that could pose a risk to human health and ecosystems.

The proposed risk management approach outlines a phased plan to prohibit or restrict the use of PFAS in high-risk applications, including firefighting foams, consumer products, and industrial uses. Businesses across manufacturing, consumer goods, construction, and chemical sectors must now assess their exposure to PFAS and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes. Starting in 2025, 163 PFAS will also be added to the National Pollutant Release Inventory to increase transparency and monitoring.

This evolving regulatory landscape means companies must act swiftly to identify PFAS in their supply chains and implement compliance strategies. 

GoCompliance supports organizations in navigating these changes with tools to monitor PFAS usage, manage supplier data, and stay ahead of regulatory risks.

Understanding PFAS and Their Impacts

PFAS encompass a vast class of over 15,000 human-made chemicals characterized by their resistance to degradation. Due to their water and oil-repellent properties, PFAS have been widely used in various products, including firefighting foams, textiles, food packaging, and non-stick cookware. However, their persistence means they accumulate in the environment and living organisms, leading to potential health risks.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals are valuable in manufacturing, packaging, and industrial processes, they also make PFAS highly persistent in the environment—earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

The Canadian State of PFAS Report concluded that PFAS (excluding fluoropolymers) are toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). These substances are entering or may enter the environment in quantities or conditions that could harm the environment or human health.

Proposed Risk Management Approach

To mitigate the risks associated with PFAS, the Government of Canada has outlined a phased risk management approach:

• Phase 1: Prohibit the use of PFAS in firefighting foams not currently regulated, due to their high potential for environmental and human exposure.
  
  
• Phase 2: Address the use of PFAS in consumer products where alternatives exist, such as certain textiles, ski waxes, building materials, and food packaging materials.
  
  
• Phase 3: Evaluate sectors requiring further consideration through stakeholder engagement and further assessments.
  
  

Additionally, starting in 2025, 163 PFAS will be added to the National Pollutant Release Inventory to enhance understanding of their use and impacts. This initiative aims to provide insights into how PFAS are manufactured, processed, or used in quantities exceeding 1 kilogram.

Implications for Stakeholders

The proposed risk management approach signifies a comprehensive effort to address the environmental and health challenges posed by PFAS. S

takeholders, including industries and consumers, are encouraged to participate in consultations and adapt to forthcoming regulations.

For more detailed information, refer to the official announcement.

Why Is PFAS Important for Your Business?

For businesses, this growing environmental concern translates into rising regulatory scrutiny and compliance obligations. 

Failing to manage PFAS risks can result in legal, financial, and reputational damage. Proactively identifying PFAS in your supply chain and aligning with Canada’s proposed risk management approach is now a critical part of responsible product stewardship and sustainable business operations.

Stay Ahead of PFAS Regulations with GoCompliance

As PFAS regulations tighten in Canada and globally, businesses must take proactive steps to understand, track, and eliminate high-risk substances from their products and supply chains. 

GoCompliance offers a comprehensive compliance platform designed to help companies identify PFAS and other regulatory-related risks, manage supplier declarations, and align with evolving regulatory requirements. 

With tools for automated data collection, regulatory monitoring, and Oracle Cloud integration, GoCompliance ensures your business stays compliant. 

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