IJC Town Hall Session 2: Binational Strategies and Public Involvement in Chemicals of Mutual Concern
Jennifer Boehme, International Joint Commission, [email protected]
Abstract
Annex 3 of the 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) focuses action by Canada and the United States on hazardous polluting substances or Chemicals of Mutual Concern (CMC). The GLWQA also incorporates principles of zero discharge and virtual elimination, accountability and public engagement to inform action on these substances. CMCs are designated by governments, and the development and implementation of binational strategies to prevent, eliminate or continually reduce CMCs are central to addressing the threat that toxic pollutants pose to the health of humans, wildlife and aquatic organisms. Annex 3 stresses the “importance of a lifecycle management approach,” and recent work on this approach, including recommendations by the IJC’s Great Lakes Water Quality Board on PBDEs, will be discussed. In addition, the public has been engaged in the implementation of Annex 3 through the nomination process for CMCs, and strategic considerations for maintaining public interest and involvement in the CMC process continue to be a priority for the IJC. Session participants will be invited to provide input on questions related to development of binational strategies, product lifecycle approaches, community engagement and other related topics.