Bracing For PFAS: Implications For Businesses In The Face Of Increased Regulation

Across Canada, the federal and provincial governments continue to increase regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances ("PFAS") in tandem with scientific findings regarding their widespread presence in the environment, their slow rate of breakdown, and their potential health impacts. The introduction of contaminated sites and drinking water standards as well as a planned phase out of a number of common industrial and consumer applications are examples of these progressive legislative changes.

While much discussion is focused on phasing out PFAS from the economy and the various proposed changes to legislation, the practical implications of increasing regulation on the day-to-day operations of businesses are rarely discussed. This bulletin aims to address this gap, providing an overview of developments in PFAS regulation and standards across Canada coupled with a discussion of their implications for Canadian businesses.