Toronto - With legislation introduced today, Ontario is helping its manufacturing and industrial sectors use fewer toxic substances and move to greener, healthier alternatives.  

Part of the province’s Toxics Reduction Strategy includes legislation introduced today that would, if passed, require regulated facilities to:

• Track and evaluate their current use and release of toxics
• Develop a plan to reduce the use and release of toxics, and  
• Make a summary of the plan available to the public.

 
Should the proposed Toxics Reduction Act, 2009 be passed, the province would be investing $24 million to help support Ontario’s industries transform their processes, find green chemistry alternatives and reduce the use of toxics in their operations.
 
The Toxics Reduction Strategy aims to find a balance between protecting human health and the environment, and supporting the transformation of businesses to the green economy. The strategy is built upon the recommendations of the Toxics Reduction Scientific Expert Panel and consultations with a wide range of stakeholders. 

"Ontarians want a strong economy and a high quality of life," said Environment Minister John Gerretsen. "With this proposed legislation, we can begin the important work of reducing toxics and building greener, healthier and more prosperous communities across Ontario."   

The Bill is available on the Environmental Registry at www.ebr.gov.on.ca (registry # 010-6224) for public comment until May 7, 2009.

< Prev		Next >