Minister s Report on Toxics Reduction 2016

Transcription

1 Page 1 of 60 Minister s Report on Toxics Reduction 2016 The Minister s Report on Toxics Reduction 2016, highlights Ontario s progress on implementing the toxics reduction program and provides information to Ontarians on the amounts of toxic substances used, created and released. Message from the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change I am pleased to once again release the annual report on toxics reduction, the fourth since Ontario s Toxics Reduction Act was implemented. This report highlights the positive actions facilities are taking to reduce the use and release of toxics into our air, land and water. Through our toxics reduction program we are working closely with industry to reduce the creation and use of toxic substances, complementing other ministry programs such as lowering smog-causing emissions from vehicles and implementing stricter air and water standards. In 2011, our government introduced Ontario s Toxic Reduction Act, which focuses on limiting and reducing the creation and use of toxic substances at the beginning of the industrial process. This was an important step that encouraged manufacturers to carefully consider what materials to use to make their products. It was an ambitious plan to help protect our environment and human health. Five years later, I am pleased with the progress being made. Overall, levels have gone down at facilities where they have committed to reducing the use of toxic substances. So far, nearly 40 per cent of facilities covered under the act have agreed to take action to reduce the use of at least one toxic substance. Numbers show that, in most cases, they are reducing the creation and use of toxic substances. It s a positive step in the right direction. We are also expanding on the important information being shared with industry and all Ontarians. For the first time, this report includes new information about the top five toxic substances used, created and contained in products made in Ontario, information on the substances linked with cancer and particulate matter, and profiles of 20 industrial sectors regulated under the act. We are also sharing enhancements to the province s Toxics Environment Map. The map makes it easier to learn about industrial facilities operating in your community. The map also shows which facilities intend to implement a toxics reduction option. We are especially grateful for the help we receive from our public health partners. We are working together to help inform Ontarians about substances linked with cancer. My government is working to reduce toxics through legislation, education and support to industry. As a result, government, businesses and residents are working together to find innovative ways to keep toxic substances out of our environment.

2 Page 2 of 60 But we need to do more to protect Ontarians and the environment from the harmful effects of toxic substances. Together, we need to encourage facilities to seek greener and safer alternatives for their industrial processes. As a government, we need to help manufacturers overcome their challenges so that cleaner processes will prevail. Ontarians want healthy communities. They also want a strong economy. Through our Toxics Reduction Act, we have found a way to deliver on both. I encourage people to find and support Ontario companies reducing the use and creation of toxic pollutants and encourage others to follow suit. I look forward to continuing to engage with industry and the public on ways for Ontario to achieve this goal. Purpose The minister s fourth annual report on toxics reduction provides an update on Ontario s progress in implementing the toxics reduction program. It also provides information on the amount of toxic substances that Ontario facilities used, created and released between 2012 and One of the purposes of the Toxics Reduction Act is to inform Ontarians about toxic substances. This goal aligns with Ontario s commitment to an open and transparent government, and to meet these goals, Ontario continues to post updated information and data on Ontario s Open Data Catalogue ( Annual reports and summaries of toxics reduction plans of regulated facilities are also available on the province s Toxics Environment Map ( Ontarians can search the map by geographic location, company name, toxic substance or sector to identify regulated facilities in their communities. What s new Ontario is pleased to release an enhanced Toxics Environment Map. This map has undergone improvements to provide Ontarians with more information on where actions are being taken by facilities to reduce toxic substances, as well as provide additional information on substances used in Ontario. This annual report also includes new sector profiles for each of the 20 sectors that are required to report under the Toxics Reduction Act. These profiles provide information on the top five substances used, created and released, as well as other key information. You will also find more information on substances that may be of greater interest to Ontarians including data on the top five substances that were used, created and released in 2015; substances linked with cancer; and particulate matter. Living list The Living List is the list of toxic substances under the Toxics Reduction Act that subject facilities have to report and plan on. It is called the Living List because it can change over time as the province is required to review the list for possible changes every five years. The province is continually accepting nominations ( OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH=&ENV=WWE&TIT=2107&NO= E) for potential changes to the

3 Page 3 of 60 list of substances regulated under the act. Anyone can make a nomination to make a change to the list, including the province. Ontario will consider each nomination according to criteria detailed in the nomination guide and decide if a substance will be reviewed. For more details on the process, including a periodically updated status of nominations received, see the Living List ( webpage and Nomination Guide ( As of December 12, 2016, no nominations have been submitted. Information Reported Ontario s online annual reporting data includes most of the information submitted by regulated facilities, including: company name, address, sector and National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI) identification number, and the amounts of toxic substances used, created, contained in product, and released, disposed and recycled at the facility. The toxic substances reported under the Toxics Reduction Act are the same as the substances reported under NPRI, with the addition of acetone. Although NPRI contains 347 substances and substance groupings, facilities in Ontario that report to the Toxics Reduction program reported on 240 of these substances in Facilities plan summaries, which are a snapshot of a facility s toxic substance reduction plans, are also posted online. The plan summaries include any option(s) that the facility intends to implement, or is currently implementing, to reduce toxics use, creation or releases. It also includes estimated reductions of the substances. If a facility is not implementing an option to reduce at this time, the plan summaries will include the reasons for not implementing. The information and analysis provided in this report originate from data received from facilities annual reports and their plan summaries (all data submitted as of September 14, 2016). The majority of facilities reporting are categorized as small or medium-sized (500 employees or less). 1,037 facilities submitted reports in 2015, and 71% of these facilities reported between 1 and 5 substances. Refer to the graph below on Number of Facilities by Number of Substances Reported in Number of facilities by number of substances reported in 2015

4 Page 4 of 60 Facility Plan Summaries Facility plan summaries Under the Toxics Reduction Act, a facility must develop a toxic substance reduction plan that identifies and assesses options to reduce the use and creation of those toxic substances. Implementation of the plan is voluntary, allowing each facility an opportunity to move forward at a rate that best reflects its unique economic and operational circumstances. While implementation of the plan is not mandatory, a facility may realize economic, environmental and social benefits through toxic substance reductions. A facility must submit a summary of its toxics reduction plan to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change and also make it available to the public on the Internet. This is a valuable way to communicate with Ontarians as a plan summary tells the public: why the prescribed toxic substance is used or created; about the facility s intent to reduce the use and creation of the toxic substance; and, how reductions will be achieved or reasons they may not be implementing a reduction option. There are over 1,100 facilities that have submitted a plan summary since 2011 (as of September 14, 2016). These facilities represent a wide range of sectors from chemical manufacturing to transportation equipment manufacturing to wood product manufacturing. Of the facilities that submitted a plan summary between 2011 and 2014, close to 40% intend to implement at least one option for reducing at least one substance at their facility. As shown in the table below, some facilities have indicated they intend to implement more than one option, and 162 facilities intend to implement options for 100% the substances at their facility. Of those facilities intending to implement at least one option for a substance, 36% plan on implementing options for up to half of the substances used at the facility, and 64% intend to implement options for between half and all of the substances used at the facility. Facilities that intend on implementing options for more than one substance at their facility.

5 Page 5 of 60 Range of substances the facility intends to implement options to reduce # of facilities Up to 25% of the substances at facility 84 Between 25 and 50% of the substances at facility 76 Between 50 and 75% of the substances at facility 89 Between 75 and 100% of the substances at facility 35 All of the substances at the facility (100%) 162 In their toxics reduction plans, facilities must consider seven toxics reduction categories. Of these categories, equipment or process modification was the option that facilities most identified for implementation. Below is a breakdown of each of the seven categories selected for implementation, and the percentage by which facilities selected them: Equipment or process modification (29%) Good operator practice or training (23%) Spill or leak prevention (11%) Materials or Feedstock Substitution (10%) On-site Reuse, Recycling or Recovery (10%) Product Design or Reformulation (9%) Improved Inventory Management or Purchasing Techniques (8%) Facilities have cited a variety of reasons for not implementing options, including: No options were identified that were technically or economically feasible to implement; While no options were identified currently that were technically/economically feasible, the facility will continue to investigate future opportunities; Best practices have already been implemented for more efficient manufacturing; The substance is a critical component of the product or is the product itself; and, The substance is naturally occurring in the feedstock. The table below illustrates the percentage of facilities from each sector that have indicated their intent to implement an option for at least one substance. However, the number of facilities varies across each sector and there are a number of factors that may influence a sector or facility s ability to implement toxics reduction options. Number and per cent of facilities that intend to implement an option by subsector for digit NAICS code Sector description Range of substances at the facility Number of facilities that intend on implementing Total # of facilities that submitted a plan summary in that sector Percent of facilities in each sector that intend on implementing 313 Textile mills % 334 Computer and electronic product manufacturing %

6 Page 6 of 60 3 digit NAICS code Sector description Range of substances at the facility Number of facilities that intend on implementing Total # of facilities that submitted a plan summary in that sector Percent of facilities in each sector that intend on implementing 323 Printing and related support activities 337 Furniture and related product manufacturing 321 Wood product manufacturing % % % 322 Paper manufacturing % 325 Chemical manufacturing 332 Fabricated metal product manufacturing 326 Plastics and rubber products manufacturing 339 Miscellaneous manufacturing 331 Primary metal manufacturing 335 Electrical equipment, appliance and component manufacturing 312 Beverage and tobacco product manufacturing 324 Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 336 Transportation equipment manufacturing 333 Machinery manufacturing 212 Mining and quarrying (except oil and gas) % % % % % % % % % % %

7 Page 7 of 60 3 digit NAICS code Sector description Range of substances at the facility Number of facilities that intend on implementing Total # of facilities that submitted a plan summary in that sector Percent of facilities in each sector that intend on implementing 311 Food manufacturing % 327 Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing % 314 Textile Product Mills % A complete list of facilities planning to reduce toxics (as reported in Plan Summaries) is available on Ontario s Open Data Catalogue. ( Ontarians are encouraged to visit the province s Toxics Environment Map ( to search by geographic location, company name, toxic substance or sector to find more information on facilities intending to implement options to reduce toxics. Facility Annual Reports Toxics reduction reports (hereafter called reports) are prepared and submitted annually by facilities regulated under the Toxics Reduction Act. The information provided in these reports allows Ontario to monitor facilities progress towards implementing their plans and achieving reductions. They track year-over-year toxics use, creation, amounts contained in product (the reporting requirements that are specific to Ontario s Toxics Reduction Act), as well as the amounts released, disposed and recycled at the facility (the reporting requirements under NPRI). They also track progress made on implementing toxic substance reduction plans. While Ontario can evaluate data trends as well as determine possible reasons for the trends identified, changes can be due to a number of variables. As outlined by NPRI, these variables include changes at the facility (e.g. variations in production levels, facility expansions/reductions, process modifications) and other factors such as changes in calculation methods, data updates, and changes in the regulatory environment. As well, changes to the substances reported to NPRI ( affect the substances being reported to the Toxics Reduction program and can therefore also affect the amounts of substances reported over time. For instance, NPRI lowered the reporting thresholds for certain substances in This resulted in an increase of facilities required to report, and in turn, increased the amounts reported for those particular substances. In addition, progress may be attributed to complementary ministry programs whose goals are also to minimize environmental releases. Substance terms The term use refers to the amount of a substance that is used at a facility as either the substance itself or as part of another substance. The term creation refers to any intentional or non-intentional creation of a substance at a process at a facility. Once created, the substance may be destroyed, transformed into another substance, released, disposed of, transferred or it may leave the process and/or facility contained in a product.

8 Page 8 of 60 Substances contained in product include the amount of toxic substances that leave a process at the facility in the form of a product. This includes consumer products, as well as products that will be used in another process at the facility. Substances used, created and contained in product The following graph shows the total amounts used, created, contained in product and released, for all substances in the toxics program between 2012 and There are fluctuations over the years. Between 2014 and 2015, there was a 33% (approximately 5.36 million tonnes) decrease in use; an 8% (approximately 2.4 million tonnes) decrease in creation; and a 5% (approximately 427,000 tonnes) increase in the amount contained in product. Total amounts used, created, contained in product and released Several substances contributed to the decrease in substances used in 2015 after having higher use values reported in These include Acrylic Acid, Butyl Acrylate, Ethylene Glycol, Styrene, and Vinyl Acetate. Facilities mainly cited decreases in production levels as the reason for the decreases. In 2015, some facilities reported increased use of certain substances such as Anthracene, Hydrotreated light distillate, and Manganese (and its compounds). Facilities reported a variety of reasons for the increases; e.g. an increase in production levels, changes in the method to quantify use, or it was the facility s first year reporting the substance. Overall, however, the amount of substances used in the province has decreased between 2014 and 2015, and 2015 releases are lower than in The total amount of substances created also decreased in These decreases can be attributed primarily to decreases in the creation of 1,3-Butadiene, Carbon Monoxide, Isoprene, Propylene, and Toluene. The facilities that reported the decreases identified they were primarily as a result of decreases in production levels and measurement variability. At the same time, there was an increase in the creation of several substances such as Anthracene, Biphenyl, Ethyl alcohol, Hexane, Pentane, and Zinc. The facilities that reported increased values for these substances in 2015 cited that it was their first year reporting the substance and measurement variability as the reasons for change. Again, however, the provincial total of substances created has decreased since last year, and the 2015 releases are lower than in 2012.

9 Page 9 of 60 Substances contained in product have fluctuated overall between 2012 and 2015, with most substances increasing or decreasing within a small range. There is a decrease in the amounts contained in product from 2012 to 2014 and this is mainly a result of decreases in Benzene, n-hexane, Propylene, 1,3-Butadiene, Phosphorus and Methyl ethyl ketone. More recently, between 2014 and 2015, there was an increase as a result of increases to Sulphuric Acid, Ethylene and Manganese. Substances released As shown in the graph above, total releases (to air, land and water) are very small in comparison to the substances used, created and contained in product. When focusing specifically on releases alone, the graph below, Total releases to air, land and water, shows that substances released have remained stable since 2012, with a 0.03% (119 tonne) decrease in 2015 since Total releases to air, land and water Progress on substances used, created, contained in product and released While the graphs above provide insight into overall provincial trends, they do not show progress being made on a smaller scale. Examining only the substances where facilities indicated an intent to reduce shows that there is progress occurring to reduce and/or eliminate these substances. Some facilities have indicated reductions were due to the implementation of their plans, while others have indicated other reasons such as a decrease in production. The graphs below illustrate how the use, creation, amount contained in product, and releases of toxic substances decrease over time for these facilities. Total use, creation and contained in product only for substances that facilities indicated the intent to reduce

10 Page 10 of 60 Total releases (air, land and water) only for substances that facilities indicated the intent to reduce Ontarians are encouraged to visit the province s Toxics Environment Map ( to search by geographic location, company name, toxic substance or sector to find more information on facilities use, creation, amounts contained in product and releases of toxic substances. Substances of Interest Top 5 substances used, created, contained in product and released The tables below provide data on the top 5 substances used, created, contained in product and released in 2015 (by weight). The tables show that the substances for each are mostly different from each other, which is expected as each substance serves a different purpose in a facility s operations. Some substances are more likely to be used as an input, whereas other substances are typically created or released. Carbon Monoxide, Sulphur Dioxide and Particulate Matter are

11 Page 11 of 60 commonly created and released (further information on particulate matter is presented later in this report). Ethylene is commonly used, created and contained in product, and Manganese is one of the top 5 substances used and contained in product. Top 5 substances used (by weight) in 2015 reported under the Toxics Reduction program Substance Tonnes # facilities intending to implement # of facilities reporting the substance % facilities intending to implement Primary sectors that use the substance 1. Butane (all isomers) 2. Pentane (all isomers) 995, % Chemical manufacturing 50% Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 49% 955, % Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 89% Chemical manufacturing 10% 3. Ethylene 820, % Chemical manufacturing 100% 4. Manganese (and its compounds) 784, % Fabricated metal product manufacturing 76% Primary metal manufacturing 14% 5. Benzene 485, % Chemical manufacturing 85% Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 14% Top 5 substances created (by weight) in 2015 reported under the Toxics Reduction program Substance Tonnes # facilities intending to implement # of facilities reporting the substance % facilities intending to implement Primary sectors that create the substance 1. Carbon monoxide 15,747, % Primary metal manufacturing 99% 2. Ethylene 1,124, % Chemical manufacturing 95% Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing 4% 3. Sulphuric acid 4. Sulphur dioxide 5. Total Particulate Matter 1,024, % Primary metal manufacturing 93% Chemical manufacturing 7% 721, % Primary metal manufacturing 86% Chemical manufacturing 8% Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing 3% Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing 2% 695, % Primary metal manufacturing 70% Paper manufacturing 17% Chemical manufacturing 9% Wood product manufacturing 2%

12 Page 12 of 60 Top 5 substances contained in product (by weight) in 2015 reported under the Toxics Reduction program Substance Tonnes # facilities intending to implement # of facilities reporting the substance % facilities intending to implement Primary sectors that release the substance 1. Sulphuric Acid 1,028, % Primary metal manufacturing 92% Chemical manufacturing 7% 2. Toluene 914, % Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 92% Chemical manufacturing 8% 3. Ethylene 886, % Chemical manufacturing 97% Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 3% 4. Xylene 805, % Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 96% Chemical manufacturing 4% 5. Manganese 749, % Fabricated metal product manufacturing 80% Primary metal manufacturing 13% Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing 5.0% Transportation Equipment Manufacturing 2% Top 5 substances released (by weight) in 2015 reported under the Toxics Reduction program Substance Tonnes # facilities intending to implement # of facilities reporting the substance % facilities intending to implement Primary sectors that release the substance 1. Sulphur dioxide 244, % Primary metal manufacturing 80% Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 8% Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing 6% Chemical manufacturing 4% 2. Carbon monoxide 57, % Primary metal manufacturing 26% Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 22% Paper manufacturing 17% Chemical manufacturing 12% Non-Metallic Mineral Product Manufacturing 9% Wood Product Manufacturing 8%

13 Page 13 of 60 Substance Tonnes # facilities intending to implement # of facilities reporting the substance % facilities intending to implement Primary sectors that release the substance 3. Nitrogen oxides (expressed as nitrogen dioxide) 4. Total Particulate Matter 45, % Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing 36% Primary metal manufacturing 19% Chemical manufacturing 14% Petroleum and coal product manufacturing 12% Paper manufacturing 10% 27, % Primary metal manufacturing 37% Mining and quarrying (except oil and gas) 19% Paper manufacturing 14% Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing 10% Wood product manufacturing 8% 5. PM10 15, % Primary metal manufacturing 34% Paper manufacturing 19% Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing 12% Mining and quarrying (except oil and gas) 10% Wood product manufacturing 7% Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing 7% Substances linked with cancer Thirty seven of the toxic substances regulated under the Toxics Reduction Act are identified as known or probable carcinogens (substances linked with cancer) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. These substances may be found in the environment, and health organizations and partners are continually determining how the environmental exposures to these substances are linked with cancer. The graph below illustrates the substances linked with cancer released to the environment by facilities under the Toxics Reduction program, between 2012 and The graph shows that environmental releases are primarily to air, with very small amounts being discharged to land and water. Since 2012, releases have remained relatively stable with a small decrease from 2014 to Substances linked with cancer released to air, water, and land

14 Page 14 of 60 When looking at trends of releases of substances linked with cancer, public health information is very important in understanding the potential for human exposure and impacts. A recent report released by Public Health Ontario and Cancer Care Ontario called the Environmental Burden of Cancer in Ontario ( estimates that 3,540 to 6,510 new cancer cases each year in Ontario are from exposure to 23 environmental carcinogens. The Environmental Burden of Cancer report identifies environmental substances linked with cancer that are responsible for 10 or more new cancer cases per year, some of which are reported under the Toxics Reduction Act. These include PM 2.5, Arsenic, Acrylamide, Diesel Particulate Matter, Asbestos, Formaldehyde, Dioxins and Chromium, with PM2.5 identified as contributing the third highest number of new cancer cases per year. The report identifies priority routes of exposure, including breathing, eating, and drinking, and sources originating from outdoor and indoor air pollution, food, drinking water and indoor dust. The graph below illustrates the releases to the environment of all the substances under the toxics program in comparison with those that are substances linked with cancer, and those that are substances linked with cancer responsible for 10 or more new cancer cases per year. Of the total amount of toxic substances released to the environment, 14% of those releases are from substances linked with cancer. Substances linked with cancer, that are responsible for 10 or more new cancer cases per year as identified in the Environmental Burden of Cancer in Ontario report, account for 2% of the overall provincial releases and disposals by facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act. In many cases exposure is not from industrial facilities for these substances, but exposure through our food and our homes Discharges to the environment of Toxics Reduction Act (TRA) substances and TRA substances linked with cancer

15 Page 15 of 60 Toxic substance reduction planning can be a tool to help facilities identify opportunities to reduce substances linked with cancer from being used, created and released to the environment. Indeed, while developing their toxic substance reduction plans, Ontario facilities are targeting substances linked with cancer. The table below shows the number of facilities that indicated the intent to implement an option to reduce one or more substances linked with cancer. Number of facilities that intend to implement an option to reduce a substance linked with cancer* between 2011 and Number of facilities that intend on implementing Number of facilities that have submitted a plan summary % of facilities that intend on implementing 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole %

16 Page 16 of 60 Number of facilities that intend on implementing Number of facilities that have submitted a plan summary % of facilities that intend on implementing Ethylene oxide % p,p'-methylenebis(2-chloroaniline) % Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene % Hexavalent chromium (and its compounds) % Dichloromethane % Trichloroethylene % Sulphuric acid % Lead (and its compounds) % Dibenz(a,j)acridine % Tetrachloroethylene % Benzo(a)pyrene % Cadmium (and its compounds) % Formaldehyde % Nickel (and its compounds) % Benzene % Arsenic (and its compounds) % Total Particulate Matter % 2,3,4,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzofuran % 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin % PM % 2.5 PM % 10 Asbestos (friable form only) % *List of substances linked with cancer is based on substances that are reportable under the Toxics Reduction Act and are classified as known or probable carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The data reported on substances linked with cancer can help inform the Ontario government and other organizations on policies and programs that focus on reducing the release of these substances into the environment, including working with facilities to implement toxics reduction options that focus on these substances.

17 Page 17 of 60 Particulate matter Particulate matter is of interest to Ontario for a number of reasons: it is one of the top 5 substances created and released by weight, it is one of the most commonly reported substances by facilities captured under the Toxics Reduction Act, and it is a substance linked with cancer. What is particulate matter? Particulate matter is the general term used for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets in the air. It includes aerosols, smoke, fumes, dust, ash and pollen. The size, composition and origin of particulate matter can vary due to a number of factors such as location, types of emission sources and contaminants, season and weather conditions. Particulate matter is characterized according to size - mainly because the potential for health effects associated with particles based on different diameters. PM2.5 is particulate matter that is less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter. It is also known as respirable particles because it penetrates the respiratory system further than larger particles and is considered to be a higher health risk factor than larger particles. Particulate matter can be directly emitted (primary particulate) or can be formed in the atmosphere as a result of chemical reactions involving gaseous precursors (secondary particulate). This report focuses on primary particulate only. Total Particulate Matter has a diameter of up to 100 micrometres, and particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres is known as PM. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies particulate matter in outdoor air as a group 1 carcinogen. The Environmental Burden of Cancer Report by Public Health Ontario and Cancer Care Ontario identifies PM2.5 as one of the top three environmental contributors of new cancer cases per year in Ontario. What are the sources of particulate matter? Particulate matter emissions to outdoor air is directly emitted from a variety of point and area sources. NPRI defines point sources as any stationary sources that usually release emissions through industrial stacks or other emission sources, and where these emissions can be measured. Area sources are defined by the NPRI as small collective sources that are inventoried as a group and which are too numerous to inventory as individual point sources. Area sources include residential, institutional and commercial fuel combustion, mobile sources such as motor vehicles, and open sources. Open sources, as defined by NPRI, are sources that cannot be directly measured and are associated with activities that generate dust or disturb the soil including travel on roads, construction or agricultural operations. Open sources emit particulate matter over large geographical areas and are dispersed over too large an area to allow controls by conventional equipment. As shown in the graph below, open sources account for the vast majority of particulate matter emissions in Ontario. In 2014, open sources contributed to 96.5% of Total Particulate Matter, 93% of PM and 75% of PM emissions Ontario emission sources for PM, PM and Total Particulate Matter

18 Page 18 of 60 Besides open sources, the other sources of particulate matter include point sources (e.g. industrial) and area sources (e.g. residential, transportation/mobile and miscellaneous (e.g. meat cooking and cigarette smoking). The graphs below illustrate the provincial emissions of Total Particulate Matter, PM10 and PM2.5 and the relative contribution of emissions from each of these types of area sources when open sources are excluded. For example, in 2014, Ontario s PM2.5 emission from residential fuel combustion (e.g. wood burning in fireplaces and wood stoves) accounted for 57% of emissions, whereas industrial fuel combustion and processes only accounted for 21% of emissions, and the transportation sector accounted for 16% was the first year when all regulated facilities were required to report under the Toxics Reduction Act (TRA). The graphs show the contributions that the facilities that report under the TRA make to the overall provincial releases from 2012 to 2014, excluding open sources. Although particulate matter is one of the most reported substances by facilities under the TRA, the graphs show that in 2014, Total Particulate Matter emitted by facilities contributed 22% to the total releases by the industrial sources. This corresponds to 0.3% of total provincial releases, including open sources. Facilities that report PM10 under the TRA contributed 42% to the total releases by the industrial sources. This corresponds to 1% of the overall provincial releases, including open sources. Finally, facilities reporting PM2.5 under the TRA made up 48% of total industrial releases in Ontario, and including open sources, makes up 2.6% of total provincial releases. Ontario Total Particualte Matter emissions (2005 to 2014)

19 Page 19 of 60 Ontario PM emissions (2005 to 2014) 10 Ontario PM emissions (2005 to 2014) 2.5

20 Page 20 of 60 These graphs also illustrate that the general trends for provincial emissions of particulate matter, excluding open sources, have been decreasing since 2005: Total Particulate Matter has decreased by 25%, PM by 22% and PM by 19%. These overall reductions can be partially attributed to numerous Ontario environmental initiatives, including: phasing out coal-fired electricity generation and replacing coal-generated power with cleaner, non-emitting energy sources; reducing smog-causing emissions from cars and trucks through Drive Clean emissions testing; and setting air standards under the Local Air Quality Regulation (O. Reg. 419/05). New environmental initiatives will continue to support reductions in particulate matter. For example, under the pan- Canadian Air Quality Management System, Ontario is currently developing an Air Zone Management framework to help achieve Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for PM2.5 and drive continuous improvements to air quality across the province. In addition, under the Climate Change Action Plan, Ontario is developing a new wood stove exchange and replacement program targeting northern, rural and indigenous communities that is expected to reduce emissions of contaminants associated with wood burning, which includes particulate matter. Ontario s Air Quality Health Index considers PM2.5 in the air (along with several other pollutants) as an indicator of the overall outdoor air quality. The Air Quality Health Index ( is a health protection tool that is designed to help you make decisions to protect your health by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution and adjusting your activity levels during increased levels of air pollution. Additional toxics reduction program initiatives Various initiatives continue to support the Toxics Reduction Program and the development of the green economy. Toxics Substance Reduction Planners continue to play an important role in reviewing and providing advice to facilities to strengthen their toxic substance reduction plans. More broadly, initiatives under the program have contributed to the provincial goals of fostering an economy that creates a cleaner and more sustainable future.

21 Page 21 of 60 Compliance Ontario uses a graduated compliance approach to ensure facilities are complying with the reporting, planning and public posting requirements of the Toxics Reduction Act and regulation. Compliance rates show that 98% of the expected facilities were or became compliant with the requirements under the act and regulation for the 2013 reporting year. Data for the 2014 reporting year was reported by June 1, 2015, and quality control checks were performed to ensure its accuracy. Compliance activities are now underway for the 2014 reporting year. Licensed toxic substance reduction planners Under the Toxics Reduction Act, toxics reduction plans must be certified by a licensed Toxic Substance Reduction Planner. As of April 1, 2016 there were 295 certified planners in Ontario. ( Visit Toxic Substance Reduction Planner Licensing ( for more information. Growing the green economy The field of Green Chemistry and Engineering provides industry with sustainable products and process alternatives to help meet advancing market demands. This in turn leads to enhancements in sustainability, improvements to human health, and drives Ontario s economy forward. In 2010, Ontario provided funding over five years to support two research Chairs, Dr. Suresh Narine from Trent University and Dr. Michael Cunningham from Queens University, to encourage the design of chemical products and processes that are safe, energy efficient and environmentally sustainable. The Chairs have built significant capacity in their specific areas of research. Read Dr. Suresh Narine's final report ( and Dr. Michael Cunningham's final report ( GreenCentre Canada was created in 2009 and has been at the forefront of developing and implementing chemistry technologies that reduce the amount of toxic substances used, created and released to the environment. GreenCentre Canada helps companies to introduce greener products and processes in the global marketplace. Please visit GreenCentre Canada ( to learn more about their programs. Education and outreach on substances Ontario continues to work with partners to bring better information to Ontarians on toxic substances. Under the Canada Ontario Agreement Harmful Pollutants Annex, the ministry has supported education and outreach projects managed by Pollution Probe and Environmental Defence Canada to increase public awareness of toxic substances in everyday consumer products and to engage and educate the public on contaminants with direct environmental and human health impacts. Pollution Probe has completed a video challenge under the EduTox program, a competition designed for youth (ages 14-22) to create short videos on toxic substances encountered in their day-to-day lives. A list of submissions is available here ( Environmental Defence Canada has developed 30,000 wallet cards ( and is holding community workshops and conducting school outreach by engaging teachers and student clubs.

22 Page 22 of 60 Sector Quick Facts Mining and quarrying (except oil and gas) NAICS 212 Industries in this subsector primarily engage in mining, mine site development, and beneficiating (preparing) metallic minerals and non-metallic metals, including coal. It does not include support services required for mining or quarrying minerals or metals. Number of facilities in 2015: 20 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 2-35 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 27.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 488,273 16,072 13,810 Map: Location of mining and quarrying facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015

23 Page 23 of 60 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Food manufacturing NAICS 311 This subsector primarily produces food for human or animal consumption. It does not include beverage manufacturing. Number of facilities in 2015: 102 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-12 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 19.1% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015

24 Page 24 of 60 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 81,901 13,659 4,878 Map: Location of food manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

25 Page 25 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Beverage and tobacco product manufacturing NAICS 312 Industries in this subsector primarily engage in manufacturing beverages (including nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages) and tobacco products. Number of facilities in 2015: 6 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-7 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 33.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) ,501 1,185 Map: Location of beverage and tobacco product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

26 Page 26 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

27 Page 27 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Textile mills NAICS 313 This subsector primarily transforms natural or synthetic fibres into products such as yarn or fabric. Textile mills exclude establishments that manufacture textile products or clothing. Number of facilities in 2015: 6 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-12 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 83.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 1, Map: Location of textile mills reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

28 Page 28 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

29 Page 29 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Textile product mills NAICS 314 This subsector primarily transforms natural or synthetic fibres into products such as yarn or fabric. Textile mills exclude establishments that manufacture textile products or clothing. Number of facilities in 2015: 6 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-12 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 83.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 1, Map: Location of textile mills reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

30 Page 30 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Antimony (and its compounds) was the only substance reported by this facility for The total amount used was between 10 and 100 tonnes. Top substances, by weight, created in 2015 There were no substances reported as created for Textile Product Mills Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 There were no substances reported as "released" for Textile Product Mills (NAICS 313) Wood product manufacturing NAICS 321 This subsector primarily engages in three main areas: those that saw logs into lumber and similar products, or preserve those products; those that make products that improve on the natural characteristics of wood, such as making plywood or veneers; and those that make a wide range of wood products, such as millwork. It does not include forestry or logging industries, manufacturing paper, or manufacturing wood cabinets, signs or coffins. Number of facilities in 2015: 33 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-76 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 51.6%

31 Page 31 of 60 Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 24,232 30,455 10,687 Map: Location of wood product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015

32 Page 32 of 60 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Paper manufacturing NAICS 322 Industries in this subsector manufacture pulp, paper, and paper products. Number of facilities in 2015: 25 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-58 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 48.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 64, , ,993 Map: Location of paper manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

33 Page 33 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

34 Page 34 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 < Printing and related support activities NAICS 323 This subsector primarily engages in printing products (such as newspapers, books, and labels) and provides related support activities such as bookbinding and data imaging. Number of facilities in 2015: 29 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-16 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 54.1% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 2, ,793 Map: Location of printing and related support activities facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

35 Page 35 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

36 Page 36 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Petroleum and coal product manufacturing NAICS 324 Industries in this subsector transform crude petroleum and coal into intermediate and usable end products. This is primarily done through petroleum refining that separates crude petroleum into component products. This subsector excludes manufacturing chemicals from refined petroleum and coal products. Number of facilities in 2015: 19 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-77 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 33.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 4,230,732 5,378,502 43,989 Map: Location of petroleum and coal product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

37 Page 37 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

38 Page 38 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Chemical manufacturing NAICS 325 This subsector primarily engages in manufacturing chemicals and chemical preparations from organic and inorganic materials. It excludes the processing of crude petroleum and coal, beneficiating mineral ores, and smelting and refining ores. Number of facilities in 2015: 161 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-80 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 47.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 3,858,973 3,242,422 31,281 Map: Location of chemical manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

39 Page 39 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

40 Page 40 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Plastics and rubber products manufacturing NAICS 326 Industries in this subsector primarily make goods by processing plastics materials and raw rubber. Number of facilities in 2015: 92 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-13 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 41.5% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 52, ,979 Map: Location of plastics and rubber products manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

41 Page 41 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

42 Page 42 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing NAICS 327 This subsector primarily engages in manufacturing products for intermediate or final consumption, out of non-metallic minerals, such as cutting, shaping and finishing granite, marble or other stones; mixing non-metallic minerals with chemicals; and heating non-metallic mineral products to make such things as bricks, ceramic, cement and glass. Number of facilities in 2015: 70 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-38 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 17.1% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 325,467 42,028 42,360 Map: Location of non-metallic mineral product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

43 Page 43 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

44 Page 44 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Primary metal manufacturing NAICS 331 Industries in this subsector primarily smelt and refine metals from ore, pig or scrap and also make metal alloys by introducing chemical elements to metals. Number of facilities in 2015: 96 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 38.0% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 895,474 17,892, ,335 Map: Location of primary metal manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

45 Page 45 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

46 Page 46 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Fabricated metal product manufacturing NAICS 332 This subsector primarily engages in transforming metal into intermediate or end products by forging, stamping, forming, turning, and joining. It excludes manufacturing metal products by rolling, drawing, extruding, alloying or casting. Number of facilities in 2015: 129 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-17 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 45.4% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 648, ,256 Map: Location of fabricated metal product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

47 Page 47 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

48 Page 48 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Machinery manufacturing NAICS 333 Industries in this subsector primarily manufacture industrial and commercial machinery by assembling parts into components, subassemblies and complete machines. Number of facilities in 2015: 28 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-11 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 28.6% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 4, Map: Location machinery manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

49 Page 49 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

50 Page 50 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Computer and electronic product NAICS 334 This subsector primarily engages in making computers, computer peripherals, communications equipment, and similar electronic products, as well as components for such products. Number of facilities in 2015: 16 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-7 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 66.7% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) Map: Location of computer and electronic product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

51 Page 51 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

52 Page 52 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Electrical equipment, appliance and component manufacturing NAICS 335 Industries in this subsector primarily make products that generate, distribute and use electrical power. Number of facilities in 2015: 17 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-6 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 37.0% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 25, Map: Location of electrical equipment, appliance and component manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

53 Page 53 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

54 Page 54 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Transportation equipment manufacturing NAICS 336 This subsector primarily engages in producing equipment to transport people and goods by road, rail, air and water. Number of facilities in 2015: 135 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-44 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 32.1% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 101,602 2,536 6,908 Map: Location of transportation equipment manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

55 Page 55 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

56 Page 56 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Furniture and related product manufacturing NAICS 337 Industries in this subsector primarily manufacture furniture and related products such as mattresses and cabinets by cutting, bending, molding, laminating and assembling a variety of materials such as wood, glass, plastic, metal and rattan. Number of facilities in 2015: 26 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-22 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 54.1% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 1, Map: Location of furniture and related product manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015

57 Page 57 of 60 *Green dots indicate facilities that intend on implementing a plan to reduce at least one substance. Top substances, by weight, used in 2015 Top substances, by weight, created in 2015

58 Page 58 of 60 Top substances, by weight, released to air, land and water in 2015 Miscellaneous manufacturing NAICS 339 This subsector is made up of establishments that are not classified in any other subsector that make a wide range of products, such as sporting and athletic goods, toys, office supplies, or medical products. Number of facilities in 2015: 26 Range in number of substances reported in 2015: 1-11 Percent of facilities that intend on implementing: 39.3% Table: Total amounts of all substances used, created and released in 2015 Used Created Released Total amounts (tonnes) 39, Map: Location of miscellaneous manufacturing facilities reporting under the Toxics Reduction Act in 2015