On February 14, 2026, the Canada Gazette announced that Environment and Climate Change Canada intends to amend the Domestic Substances List (DSL) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. The amendment involves adding the letter "P" after the identifiers of 220 polymers, as these polymers have been assessed to meet the "Reduced Regulatory Requirement" (RRR) polymer criteria.
Background
The DSL lists substances that are manufactured or imported in Canada on a commercial scale. Substances not listed on the DSL are considered new substances. Substances on the DSL generally do not require notification. However, if a substance identifier is followed by the letters "S," "S′," or "P," notification may be required under certain circumstances.
- S Mark: Indicates that the substance is subject to subsection 81(3) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. This mark applies to new substances assessed as potentially becoming toxic if involved in a significant new activity. Anyone intending to undertake a new activity must submit prescribed information for risk assessment.
- S′ Mark: Similar to the S mark, it indicates that the substance is regulated under subsection 81(3) but applies to substances assessed under sections 68 or 74 of the Act. The purpose remains the same: notification is required before undertaking a new activity.
- P Mark: Indicates that the substance meets the RRR polymer criteria. If a polymer does not meet the RRR criteria and exceeds the threshold, a non-RRR notification must be submitted. If reassessment finds the polymer non-toxic, the P mark may be removed; if toxic, further measures will be taken.
Scope of Amendment
- Part 1: Approximately 110 polymers identified by CAS numbers (e.g., 25608-63-3 N, 25718-70-1 N, etc.).
- Part 3: Approximately 110 polymers identified by specific numbers and masked names (e.g., 11746-1 T, 11870-8 N, etc.).
Public Participation
Within 120 days of the notice of intent, any person may submit comments on the proposed amendment, which will be considered during the final order development. The final order will be published in Part II of the Canada Gazette. The amendment to the DSL will take effect upon publication of the order in Part II of the Canada Gazette.
