Pollutants

Pollutants are among the most visible effects of human occupation on Earth and, whether obvious or not, they are directly and indirectly harming human health and our environment.

Some, such as mercury, are naturally occurring, while many others are man made. The challenge for government is to minimize the risks posed by their use, storage and release, and, if man made, to accelerate their elimination.

Environment Canada uses a variety of tools to reduce the impact of pollutants on our air, water and land. The department offers programs and practical guidance to ensure safe handling of pollutants and uses legislation and regulations to prevent their inappropriate use or release into our environment.

• Major Pollutants
  Learn more about major pollutants in our environment - where they come from, concerns they raise and how they are being managed.
• Management of Toxic Substances
  Find out how Environment Canada prevents toxic substances from entering our environment and harming human health.
• National Pollutant Release Inventory
  Information on pollutant releases, disposals and recycling in Canada.