The ChemTRAC program has released Phase 3 Data on the use and release of 25 priority toxic substances across Toronto. Phase 3 of ChemTRAC signals the final stage of implementing this landmark 'Right to Know' program!
In addition to all of the earlier reporters to ChemTRAC, we now have chemical data for Phase 3 businesses such as textile and clothing manufacturers, metal and electrical manufacturers, transportation support industries in ports, harbours, airports and vehicle towing. Check out ChemTRAC's chemical summary reports (including maps) for 14 major business sectors.
According to Toronto Public Health’s third annual ChemTRAC report, released on June 30th, there are 8 'Substances of Highest Concern' to our health.
TEA was at the Board of Health meeting and thanks to our efforts, we prompted a motion from City Councillors to take action to reduce these toxic 8 chemicals in 2015. Here's the motion that passed:
Key findings from ChemTRAC report and Phase 3 Data
The 2014 ChemTRAC report has confirmed that there remain 8 out of 25 priority substances that require action to protect public health. These are the same 8 chemicals that were identified in last year's report including 3 substances that contribute to poor air quality and smog, and 5 toxic substances which pose health risks including cancer:
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VOCs, NOx and PM2.5 - smog-forming contaminants
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Polycyclic Aromatic
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Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Cadmium, and Tetrachloroethylene (perc) - cancer-causing chemicals
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Lead & Mercury - heavy metals, neurotoxic and reprotoxic
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80% of the businesses that reported to ChemTRAC in 2012 were not required to report to other levels of government.
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Thanks to ChemTRAC, we can identify 73% more cancer-causing air releases that were never publicly reported under the national pollution program (NPRI).We can also identify 95% more information on releases that are otherwise toxic to our bodies, especially vulnerable groups like expecting mothers and children!
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64% of businesses increased their toxics reduction awareness because of the ChemTRAC Program, according to a recent survey.
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Toronto facilities reported the manufacture, processing or use of approx. 71,000 tonnes of priority substances to ChemTRAC in 2012.
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Approximately 8,000 tonnes of priority substances were
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released into Toronto's environment, primarily into our air, in 2012.
The data is not yet included on the online map due to technical issues with the City of Toronto's website. When it is posted, you can find it at toronto.ca/chemtrac.
