IJC Town Hall Session 3: Effective Response to Emerging Chemicals
John Jackson, International Joint Commission, [email protected]
Abstract
The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement incorporates the principle of the virtual elimination of persistent toxic substances to protect the Great Lakes basin. Progress in reducing levels of legacy chemicals is ongoing, but levels of emerging contaminants are of concern. In addition, legacy toxic substances and emerging contaminants have triggered health advisories recommending limited human consumption of some species in some locations (i.e., Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances [PFAS]). This session will examine the need for increased research to identify sources and impacts of emerging contaminants, as well as controls and prevention strategies. While draft binational strategies to reduce, eliminate and prevent releases of designated CMCs are under development by the two countries as part of Annex 3, other policies and programs based on the principles of Extended Producer Responsibility have been put forward as a framework for action. Session participants will be invited to provide input on questions related to stakeholder involvement, action priorities, data sharing with the public, and other related topics.