Introduction

On June 14th, 2023, Canada took a monumental step towards a healthier and more just future with the passage of Bill S-5, Strengthening Environmental Protection for a Healthier Canada Act to update the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA). This landmark legislation, which received Royal Assent, marks the first time the right to a healthy environment is recognized under federal law. CAPE celebrates this achievement and remains committed to ensuring the effective implementation and further strengthening of CEPA.

Our Journey So Far

The CAPE community has been instrumental in advocating for CEPA reform. Our efforts included:

• Testifying before Senate and House Committees: CAPE members provided expert testimonies that highlighted the urgent need for modernizing CEPA.
• Lobbying and Direct Advocacy: Through CAPE Lobby Day, we engaged directly with Members of Parliament and Senators, emphasizing the health implications of toxic exposures.
• Public Engagement: CAPE members wrote commentaries and participated in media discussions to raise public awareness about the importance of CEPA reform.

These collective actions contributed to the passage of Bill S-5, which introduced critical updates for controlling toxic substances, enhances transparency and accountability, and enshrines the right to a healthy environment.

Key Provisions of Bill S-5

Bill S-5 brings several significant changes to CEPA, including:

• Prohibition of Hazardous Substances: Priority is given to banning the most dangerous chemicals.
• Enhanced Framework for Toxic Substances: Improved processes for assessing and managing toxic substances.
• Recognition of the Right to a Healthy Environment: For the first time, federal law acknowledges this right, along with principles of environmental justice, intergenerational equity, and non-regression.
• Consideration of Cumulative Impacts: The law requires the federal government to consider the cumulative effects of toxic substances, particularly on vulnerable populations.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Plans

While we celebrate the passage of Bill S-5, our work is far from over. CAPE is committed to:

• Holding the Government Accountable: We will ensure the government upholds its duty to implement the modernized CEPA effectively, including the new right to a healthy environment.
• Advocating for Further Reforms: Based on our ongoing analysis, we will develop and share recommendations for additional changes to CEPA in future legislation.
• Addressing Specific Issues: Current focus areas include the regulation of PFAS “Forever Chemicals,” reducing air pollution, and tackling environmental racism.

Call to Action

We invite the CAPE community and all Canadians to join us in this crucial work. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Stay Informed: Follow our updates and read our briefings on CEPA and related issues.
• Advocate: Contact your MP and urge them to support further CEPA reforms and the introduction of new legislation.
• Participate in Consultations: Share your input on the implementation of the right to a healthy environment through government portals like the Advancing Environmental Equity portal.
• Sign Petitions: Support petitions advocating for the passage of related legislation and regulations

Additional Resources

For more information, please explore this selection of related CAPE resources which includes:

• Government Briefings and Communications: Detailed notes and submissions on CEPA and Bill S-5.
• Media and Public Engagement: Press releases, opinion pieces, and blog posts discussing the importance of CEPA reform.
• Collaborative Efforts: Joint statements and letters with other environmental and health organizations.

Conclusion

The passage of Bill S-5 to modernize CEPA was a significant victory for environmental and human health in Canada. However, the journey towards a toxin-free environment and environmental justice continues. By working together, we can ensure that Canada emerges as a global leader in environmental health, where chemical pollution no longer threatens human and planetary well-being.