Tuesday, September 30, 2025
To protect the health of people in Canada and the environment, the federal government is taking the next step in addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
PFAS are a class of thousands of human-made substances that are also known as “forever chemicals”. These substances do not break down easily and have been found to be harmful to human health and the environment.
Earlier this year, the Government of Canada proposed a multi-phase risk management approach for PFAS, excluding fluoropolymers. Today, the Government is publishing the consultation document on Phase 1 of the proposed risk management for the class of PFAS, excluding fluoropolymers. This phase proposes to address all known remaining uses of PFAS that are not already regulated in firefighting foams.
PFAS-containing firefighting foams, also known as aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), are used to put out dangerous fires that involve flammable liquids. These foams are mainly used in civil and military aviation and in the chemical and petroleum industries. They are also used to put out fires aboard ships, at shore facilities, and in other industrial settings that use hazardous products. The foams are a significant source of PFAS contamination in drinking water and the environment. The proposed actions in Phase 1 aim to reduce releases of PFAS to the environment and drive the transition to safer alternatives.
“The federal government is actively addressing the issue of PFAS due to their potential to significantly harm both the environment and Canadians,” said Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “By proposing a phase-out of PFAS in firefighting foams, we aim to reduce harmful exposures and prevent further contamination. This transition will also facilitate the adoption of effective alternatives for combatting these hazardous fires, thereby supporting efforts to protect public health, ecosystems, and the environment.”
The Government of Canada is committed to engagement and collaboration with all stakeholders to help inform decision making. Interested parties are invited to provide their input on the consultation document until November 25, 2025. The comments received will be considered in the development of proposed regulations.
