Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999

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Parliament of Canada
Citation	S.C. 1999, c. 33
Territorial extent
Considered by
Enacted by	Parliament of Canada
Passed
Enacted
Considered by
Enacted by

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) is a significant piece of legislation in Canada that aims to protect the environment and human health by preventing pollution and promoting sustainable development. It provides the federal government with the authority to regulate and manage substances that pose a risk to the environment and human health.

Overview

CEPA 1999 was enacted to address the growing concerns about environmental pollution and its impact on human health. The Act provides a comprehensive framework for the assessment and management of chemical substances, the control of pollution, and the protection of the environment.

The Act is administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada and Health Canada, which work together to assess and manage risks associated with chemical substances. CEPA 1999 also establishes the legal framework for the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI), which tracks the release of pollutants into the environment.

Key Provisions

Pollution Prevention

CEPA 1999 emphasizes pollution prevention as a key strategy for protecting the environment. It encourages the reduction of waste and the use of cleaner technologies to minimize the release of harmful substances.

Toxic Substances

The Act provides a process for identifying and managing toxic substances. Substances that are found to be toxic are added to the List of Toxic Substances, and measures are taken to control their use, release, and disposal.

Environmental Emergencies

CEPA 1999 includes provisions for responding to environmental emergencies. It requires facilities that handle hazardous substances to prepare and implement environmental emergency plans.

Public Participation

The Act promotes public participation in environmental decision-making. It provides mechanisms for the public to be involved in the assessment and management of substances and to have access to information about pollutants.

Implementation

The implementation of CEPA 1999 involves collaboration between federal, provincial, and territorial governments, as well as engagement with Indigenous communities, industry, and the public. The Act is reviewed periodically to ensure it remains effective in addressing emerging environmental challenges.

Amendments

Since its enactment, CEPA 1999 has been amended several times to address new environmental issues and to improve its effectiveness. These amendments have strengthened the Act's provisions on pollution prevention, toxic substances, and public participation.

Criticisms and Challenges

While CEPA 1999 is a comprehensive piece of legislation, it has faced criticism for its implementation and enforcement. Some environmental groups argue that the Act does not go far enough in regulating certain substances and that enforcement measures are insufficient.

Also see

• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Health Canada
• National Pollutant Release Inventory
• List of Toxic Substances
• Sustainable development in Canada