The Chemicals Management Research Program

Background

The Government of Canada established the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) to protect people in Canada and the environment from harmful chemical substances. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) scientists and researchers support this goal by conducting research on chemicals that are potential threats to the environment and human health. Activities under the CMP Research Program generate knowledge on the environmental exposure, fate, toxicity and modes of action of priority substances and mixtures. The CMP Research Program also supports the development of methods and predictive tools that permit more efficient screening, monitoring, prioritizing, assessing and managing of chemicals. Research projects are selected according to which best addresses current priorities.

ECCC scientists and researchers conduct research activities, often collaborating with ECCC’s Laboratories, other departments, universities or other jurisdictions.

For several years, the CMP program has provided grants and contributions (G&Cs) to researchers in academic institutions or through partnerships to supplement ECCC research expertise.  These funds also promote multilateral initiatives in support of the CMP priorities. External researchers may apply for G&C funding.

Fast facts

• Over 120 ECCC research projects were conducted under the CMP Research Program since 2007
• Over 450 publications, and growing
• Over 40 principal investigators
• Thousands of datasets

Related research activities

In 2023, ECCC launched the Integrated Chemical Mixtures Project (ICMP). The project aims to develop an approach to increase understanding of the effects from real-world chemical mixtures that may be present in the environment. New information generated will support the protection of the environment and human health from harmful chemical substances.

Research project summaries

Projects (2024 to 2027 cycle) highlights

This section highlights projects taking place between 2024 and 2027 and related publications.

Assessing the acute, chronic, and multigeneration effects of trifluoroacetic acid on the freshwater amphipod Hyalella azteca using apical, transcriptomics, and biomarker endpoints (Adrienne Bartlett)

Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is a short-chain perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS). It is commonly used to make many synthetic compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and refrigerants, because it increases stability. Environmental levels of TFA have been increasing since the 1990s, and there are growing concerns about its environmental persistence and prevalence. In addition, TFA may have the potential to cause detrimental impacts, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. Several aquatic toxicity studies exist for long-chain PFAS, such as perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), but research on short-chain PFAS, such as TFA, is more limited.

This research provides data on short-term, long-term, and multigeneration effects of TFA on a freshwater amphipod (crustacean) species. This species is an important indicator of aquatic ecosystem health. Scientists monitor changes in whole-organism (survival, growth, reproduction) and sub-organismal endpoints (transcriptomics, biomarkers), and relate these indicators of toxicity to environmental concentrations to evaluate the risk to aquatic ecosystems. 

Method development and/or application for the analysis of priority substances in passive air samplers (Amandeep Saini)

This project will develop advanced analysis methods in air for Perfluoroalkyl Acids (PFAAs), chlorinated alkanes and Bisphenol A (BPA) structural analogues and functional alternatives (SAFA). Scientists will also assess the performance and produce guidance on the use of passive samplers for measuring ultrashort-chain and long-chain PFAAs in air. The presence of these chemicals in the Canadian environment lacks evidence and data. A few global studies report the ubiquity in the environment of these compounds, but ambient atmospheric measurements are missing. Scientists will use existing specialized instrumentation such as Liquid Chromatography (LC) coupled with low/high-resolution mass spectrometer (MS). Overall, this work will generate baseline data to help to establish long-term trends in Canada for future work. It will also inform the CMP regulatory activities and support treaties such as Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants and Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

We have assessed the passive air samples from 2023 for chlorinated alkanes and the manuscript is published. It shows a spatial distribution of chlorinated alkanes and highly heterogeneous and disproportionate contributions in some regions. Canadian levels distributions also highlight the impacts from transpacific transport of contaminants. As such, elevated levels are found at remote sites in Western Canada: Little Fox Lake, Yukon and Whistler, British Columbia.

Associated publications

Saini A, Kutarna S, Niu S, Mohindra M, Schuster J.K, Mastin J, Eng A.,  Harner T,  Yates A, Sweetman A, Jiménez B, Manzano CA, Gaga EO, Stevenson G, Alharbi H, Falandysz J, Lee JE, Miglioranza KSB, Tominaga M, Jariyasopit N, Rojas NY, Amador-Muñoz O, Forbes P, Alani R, Suresh R, Lee SB, Nishino T, Shoeib T, Jans U, Qiu X, Cheng Z Chlorinated Paraffins in Global Air: First Results from the GAPS and GAPS-Megacities Networks. ACS EST Air 2026, 3, 2, 437–448

Air studies on tire-derived chemicals (TDCs) (Tom Harner, Hayley Hung)

TDCs and their transformation products include 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone.  These chemicals are used to stabilize rubber compounds.  Scientists will investigate the properties, sources, and levels in Canadian air of TDCs.

Scientists analyze TDCs in air samples collected from urban centers, such as Toronto, and from rural sites across the Great Lakes Basin. This research allows better understanding of the TDCs and how their transformation products change as they disperse away from suspected sources.

Scientists will understand better the fate and transport of TDCs in air. It will help to characterize the risks posed to the Canadian environment and human health.

Associated publications

Johannessen. C., Saini, A., Zhang, X., Harner, T. Tire-Derived Organic Chemicals in Urban Air at the Source-Sector Scale and Guidance on the Application of Polyurethane Foam Disk. Environmental Science & Technology: Air 2025, 2,5, 917-929.

Linking atmospheric transformation products and chemistry to the overall fate, and toxicity of priority chemicals (John Liggio, Samar Moussa, Alex Lee)

This project informs how certain priority chemicals react in air and form new substances, called transformation products (TPs). These reactions are important because many everyday chemicals transform in air. Chemicals like those from tires, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or siloxanes transform in the atmosphere. The TPs may be more harmful than the chemical from which it originated.

We use laboratory experiments, computer modelling, and toxicity testing on human cells to understand these TPs. We evaluate how they form, how dangerous they might be, and whether people are exposed to them in outdoor air. The results will help identify which chemicals and their TPs could pose risks to health and the environment.

Method Development for Fluoropolymers: Ecological Effects and Association of Discrete PFAS (Amila De Silva)

The Government of Canada's State of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Report (State of per-polyfluoroalkyl substances report) excluded a conclusion on fluoropolymers. The available information indicates that fluoropolymers might have very different exposure and hazard profiles compared to other PFAS. The report underscores the urgent need for additional work on fluoropolymers to better understand their ecological effect.

Fluoropolymers are polymeric PFAS made by (co-)polymerization of olefinic monomers. The resulting compound is a carbon-only polymeric backbone with fluorine atoms directly bonded to it. Perfluoropolyethers are made of carbon-fluoride functional groups separated by oxygen atoms. Both fluoropolymers and perfluoropolyethers are resistant to degradation but their potential for leaching non-polymeric PFAS is not well understood. In addition, the bioavailability and ecological effects of fluorinated polymers remain uncertain.

This research investigates micro and nano-plastics bound fluoropolymers and perfluoropolyethers as a source of discrete PFAS to aquatic ecosystems. Scientists will also assess the effects and potential of these substances to accumulate in aquatic invertebrates (freshwater mussels). They will endeavour to produce robust and reproducible methods, given the lack of established procedures for this type of work. Of high relevance, they will also characterize fluorinated polymer leachate for ultra-short and ultra-long PFAS.

New Approaches and Methods for the Assessment of the Toxicity of Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Aquatic Organisms (Ève Gilroy, Stacey Robinson)

PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals used in products like non-stick coatings, water repellents, and firefighting foams. PFAS include substances like perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFOS and PFOA have raised concerns due to their persistence, toxicity, and ability to accumulate in living organisms.

Although PFOS use has declined, these chemicals are being replaced, notably by short-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs). Now, we detect these replacements more frequently in aquatic environments. Our research studies the toxicity of short-chain PFAS and their mixtures in underrepresented species like freshwater snails, amphipods, and amphibians. Tests will include short-term (acute), long-term (chronic) and multigeneration exposures, focusing on development, reproduction, and gene expression. This work contributes to environmental risk assessments and environmental quality guidelines of these compounds under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). It also aligns with efforts to reduce vertebrate animal testing under Bill S-5, Strengthening Environmental Protection for a Healthier Canada Act.

Associated publications

Rohonczy, J., Robinson, S.A., Forbes, M.R., De Silva, A.O., Brinovcar, C., Bartlett, A.J., Gilroy, È.A.M. 2024. The effects of two short-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) on northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) tadpole development. Ecotoxicology 33: 177-189 The effects of two short-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) on northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) tadpole development  [Open Access]

Rohonczy, J., Forbes, M.R., Gilroy, È.A.M, Carpenter, D.J., Young, S.D., Morrill, A., Brinovcar, C., De Silva, A.O., Bartlett, A.J., Robinson, S.A. 2024. Effects of perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids on developmental, physiological, and immunological measures in northern leopard frog tadpoles. Chemosphere 365: 143333 Effects of perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids on developmental, physiological, and immunological measures in northern leopard frog tadpoles [Open Access]

Fate of iron ore pelletizing dioxins and furans emissions - exposure to Indigenous communities' diet – Community Based Monitoring of traditional foods (Erin Ussery and Mark McMaster)

Dioxins and furans are semi-volatile organic pollutants. They are produced unintentionally by multiple industries such as pulp and paper mills and iron ore pelletizing plants. Dioxins and furans can bioaccumulate in the food chain. Therefore, Indigenous communities harvesting wild game on their traditional territories are concerned with these substances.

Scientists work with local communities (Innu communities of Uashat mak Mani-Utenam and Matimekush-Lac John as well as the Naskapi Nation) to determine the levels of dioxins and furans in wild foods (such as fish, moose and birds) harvested on community traditional territories. Health Canada and human health doctors at the Integrated Health and Social Services Center of the North Shore aim to determine the potential human health risk to community members ingesting these foods. This project brings together scientists, human health risk assessors, community health advisors and community members to go through the data, what it means, and paths forward.

Developmental, Health and Behavioural Effects and Bioaccumulation and Biotransformation potential of short-chain PFAS precursors and environmentally representative PFAS mixtures in fathead minnow (Erin Ussery, Amila De Silva)

Fluorinated compounds are commonly used in everyday products such as non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, food packaging, pharmaceuticals as well as in many industrial processes. They can be found throughout the aquatic environment. Since the banning of certain fluorinated “forever chemicals”, industry has shifted to using similar compounds as substitutes. These new “smaller” (shorter chained) fluorinated chemicals may break down faster in the aquatic environment and may be metabolized in exposed organisms such as fish. However, we don’t know if this is the case. 

This study aims to investigate the toxicity and behavioural effects of some of these smaller fluorinated chemicals in laboratory exposed fish. Additionally, this research examines the fate of these compounds in fish by measuring these compounds in fish tissues to assess for bioaccumulation or breakdown into metabolites. The information will help the government decide if these newer, substituted, and smaller fluorinated chemicals are safer in the environment.

Assessing microbial effects on landfill leachate toxicity (Jordyn Broadbent, Derek Smith)

Landfill leachate is a complex chemical mixture containing contaminants such as PFAS, flame retardants, and antimicrobials from consumer, industrial, and medical waste. It also hosts diverse microbial communities that persist despite its toxicity. Few studies have examined both the chemical composition and microbial communities in leachate. Knowledge of environmental risks, contaminant persistence, and bioremediation potential of landfill leachate is limited.

This project aims to identify microbial communities and their genetic capacity to metabolize harmful compounds in leachate from Ontario landfill sites of varying ages and sizes using genomics. These data will be integrated with chemical analyses to link microbial taxa and functional genes to specific contaminants. Toxicity testing using raw leachate on aquatic and terrestrial organisms will help the identification of the environmental risks.

Preliminary data show contaminant levels vary widely across sites and correlate with shifts in microbial community structure. PFAS compounds, in particular, are causing microbial changes. This research increases knowledge on leachate toxicity and supports improved landfill management, risk assessment, and environmental monitoring. Identified microbial indicators may enable cost-effective tools for tracking leachate contamination.

Associated publications

POSTER. 2025. Julian Darabaner, Derek D.N. Smith, Jordyn Broadbent, Renuka M. Subasinghe, Daniel S. Gregoire. PFAS and other environmental contaminants shaping microbial communities in Ontario landfills. Canadian Society of Microbiology Conference, June 21-25, Montreal, QC. 

Aquatic ecotoxicology of priority nanomaterials (François Gagné)

In this project, the lethal and sublethal toxicity effects of nanomaterials are evaluated to measure long-term impacts. The bioavailability and toxicity to the environment of emerging substances known as nanomaterials varies according to several factors: the substance’s physical and chemical properties, and the environmental characteristics, including abiotic and biotic features. This project consists of 3 stages:

1. Characterization of the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles in various representative environments
2. Evaluation of the toxicity of nanomaterials and their bulk form in two aquatic invertebrates (hydra and mussel; both endemic to the St. Lawrence River) and rainbow trout
3. The toxicity data obtained with the hydra test and an RTW-1 trout cell line will be compared with the rainbow trout standard test protocol in order to propose an alternative to reduce vertebrate testing under CEPA. Two alternatives to the rainbow trout test will be validated to reduce the use of fish in emerging contaminants hazard assessments

Aquatic ecotoxicology of tire wear substances (François Gagné)

Among plastic materials, polymers (nanoplastics) and tire components (rubber) represent a significant aspect of the challenges related to plastic pollution. Scientists will investigate the lethal and sublethal toxicity of tire wear by-products in fish and invertebrate to assess the long-term risk of these substances and their mixtures. They will also examine the impact on mussels and biofilms exposed to rainwater from road runoff. Scientists will examine the bioavailability and toxicity of four products linked to tire wear contamination using the standard rainbow trout test, the hydra vulgaris and RTW cell line tests. They will compare the result to new test bioassay methods under development as alternatives to vertebrate animal testing. They will also work on the validation of 2 alternative bioassays recognized as potential alternatives to animal testing proposed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): the fish gill cell line (RTW-1) and the hydra Hydra vulgaris. 

Toxicity of priority technology-critical elements in freshwater invertebrates (Ève Gilroy)

The extraction and use of new minerals in emerging industries are on the rise, and so is their end-of-life disposal. The risk to the environment needs to be properly assessed.

Scientists will evaluate the toxicity of priority metals in freshwater crustaceans (Daphnia magna) and freshwater snails (Planorbella pilsbryi). Tests with the freshwater cladoceran Daphnia magna evaluate effects on survival, growth, and reproduction. Tests with the freshwater snail Planorbella pilsbryi focus on embryo development and hatching. Preliminary results suggested that platinum impacts embryo development of snails, causing significant deformities. Further research will use molecular approaches to identify the mechanisms involved with these developmental changes.

This research supports environmental risk assessments and environmental quality guidelines for priority chemicals under CEPA and aligns with efforts to develop scientifically justified alternate methods to reduce the use of vertebrate animals in toxicity testing, under Bill S-5.

Microplastics in the lower Great Lakes: Fate, transport, dynamics, and biotic effects (Reza Valipour, Thomas Reid, Jordyn Broadbent, Jordan Musetta-Lambert)

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly detected in surface water and sediments of Lake Ontario, yet their behaviour and transport dynamics remain poorly understood. This knowledge gap hinders effective MP management in the Great Lakes.

Scientists will combine targeted field sampling, laboratory experiments and numerical modelling to assess the distribution, fate, and seasonal behaviour of MPs in Lake Ontario. It emphasizes the role of physical limnology and MPs bioaccumulation in biofilms in shaping MPs pathways and accumulation zones.

Research activities to date include:

• water and sediment sampling across the lake, including major inflow/outflow points and tributaries as well as Hamilton Harbour
• flume experiments using in situ sediment samples to understand MP resuspension and transport
• MPs analysis and bioaccumulation in aquatic biofilms

The project supports departmental priorities by enhancing predictive capacity for MPs distribution and informing source attribution and fate modelling under current and future climate scenarios. It also advances understanding of persistent fluoropolymers and their multi-trophic effects on aquatic ecosystems, in support of the CMP.

Harnessing new approach methods (NAMs) to determine the effects of priority substances (e.g. BPA alternatives, flame retardants) and mixtures of environmental relevance (Doug Crump)

Scientists use new approach methods (NAMs) to screen for potential adverse effects of priority chemicals (for example BPA alternatives, organic flame retardants [OFRs]) and complex chemical mixtures, in birds. They aim to develop animal-free, rapid toxicity testing approaches to enable efficient and ethical data generation for decision-making. The department recognizes the importance of using scientifically justified methods to reduce, refine or replace the use of vertebrate animals.

Scientists developed and used novel cell lines of two avian species (double-crested cormorant and Japanese quail). They examined complex mixtures such as landfill leachates, avian egg extracts, oilsands passive samplers, and transformation products of tire wear chemicals. In many cases, complex breakdown products are more toxic than parent compounds, and gene expression signatures are associated with contaminant burdens in wildlife. The mechanistic effects observed may be incorporated into an adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework. Incorporating toxicogenomic dose-response modeling provides novel ways of determining benchmark doses that can inform predicted no effect concentrations for chemicals and mixtures. It may also help prioritize action on contaminated sites and help hotspot identification.

Associated publications

Sharin et al. 2025. Avian-specific evidence for an estrogen receptor agonism adverse outcome pathway based on chicken embryos and LMH 3D spheroids exposed to ethinylestradiol and bisphenol A. Environ. Sci. Tech. 59: 10136-10144.

Sharin et al. 2025. Development and Characterization of a Double-Crested Cormorant Hepatic Cell Line, DCH22, for Chemical Screening. Front. Toxicol. 12 (7): 1482865.

King et al. 2025. Association of hepatic gene expression with chemical concentrations in wild-collected double-crested cormorant embryos using an EcoToxChip gene array. Environ Sci Technol 59(1): 188-198.

Zahaby et al. 2025. Comparison of gene expression and polycyclic aromatic compound profiles in hepatic tissue of black guillemot (Cepphus grylle) collected from an oil spill site and a non-spill site in the Arctic. Mar Pollut Bull 212: 117504.

Sharin et al. 2022. Toxicity Screening of Bisphenol A Replacement Compounds: Cytotoxicity and mRNA Expression in LMH 3D Spheroids. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 29 (29): 44769-44778.

Crump et al. 2021. In vitro screening of 21 BPA replacement alternatives: Compared to BPA, the majority are more cytotoxic and dysregulate more genes in avian hepatocytes. Environ. Tox. Chem 40 (7): 2026-2033.

The fate, bioavailability, and effects of engineered nano metal oxides (CuO and NiO) in soils. (Jessica Velicogna, Juliska Princz, Ajith Dias Samarajeewa)

Scientists study metal oxide nanomaterials (for example nano copper oxide and nano nickel oxide) to better understand the fate, availability and effects of engineered nanomaterials in soils. The toxicity and chemistry data support the risk assessments of these nanomaterials in the soil environment, to protect soil microbial health, soil organism biodiversity and plant growth. Scientists evaluate the influence of soil properties on nano-metal fate to predict scenarios of low or high exposure and risk to plants, soil organisms, and the microbial community. They selected ten different Canadian soil types to see what parameters (for example, pH, organic matter content, clay content and cation exchange capacity) might influence the fate of the nanomaterials. They evaluate the modelled risk by running toxicity tests in selected soils and determine effects on plant growth and soil microbial processes. The project also includes the use of new approach methodologies (NAMs) to identify key genomes involved in processes critical to nutrient cycling in soil, such as nitrification.

Associated publications

Abdulsada ZK, Kibbee R, Princz J, Ormeci B. 2025. Impact of silver and copper oxide nanoparticles on anaerobic digestion of sludge and bacterial community structure. Nanomaterials. Impact of silver and copper oxide nanoparticles on anaerobic digestion of sludge and bacterial community structure

Samarajeewa A, Velicogna J, Schwertfeger D, Meier M, Subasinghe R, Princz J, Scroggins R, Beaudette L. 2023. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (NCeO₂) exert minimal adverse effects on microbial communities in soils with and without biosolids amendment. Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nCeO2) exert minimal adverse effects on microbial communities in soils with and without biosolids amendment

Velicogna JR, Schwertfeger DM, Jesmer A, Beer C, Kuo J, DeRosa MC, Smith M, Princz JI. 2021. Soil invertebrate toxicity and bioaccumulation of nano copper oxide and copper sulphate in soils, with and without biosolids amendment. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety 217: 11222. DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112222

Samarajeewa AD, Velicogna JR, Schwertfeger DM, Princz JI, Subasinghe RM, Scroggins RP, Beaudette LA. 2021. Ecotoxicological effects of copper oxide nanoparticles (nCuO) on the soil microbial community in a biosolids-amended soil. Science of the Total Environment. Soil invertebrate toxicity and bioaccumulation of nano copper oxide and copper sulphate in soils, with and without biosolids amendment

Abdulsada Z, Kibbee R, Ormeci B, DeRosa M, Princz J. 2021. Impact of anaerobically digested silver and copper oxide nanoparticles in biosolids on soil characteristics and bacterial community. Chemosphere 263:128173. Impact of anaerobically digested silver and copper oxide nanoparticles in biosolids on soil characteristics and bacterial community

Velicogna JR, Schwertfeger DM, Beer C, Jesmer AH, Kuo J, Chen H, Scroggins RP, Princz JI. 2019. Phytotoxicity of copper oxide nanoparticles in soil with and without biosolid amendment. Nanoimpact 17:100196. DOI: Phytotoxicity of copper oxide nanoparticles in soil with and without biosolid amendment

Toxicity and toxicogenomic effects (using New Approach Methodologies) of rare earth / technology critical elements to soil invertebrates and soil microbial communities (Juliska Princz)

The use of rare earth and critical technology elements is increasing, as is the potential risk to the environment. These elements, once extracted, may accumulate in soil through mining and refining operations, landfill leachates, as well as fertilizer and biosolids application. Scientists seek to understand the fate and toxicity of lanthanum (La), lithium (Li), and gadolinium (Gd) to soil invertebrates (for example, earthworms, springtails and mites) and soil microbial processes, individually and as a mixture. Organisms being studied represent key receptors and ecosystem functions in the environment, which maintain soil health. The results of the studies provide data to support the risk assessment of these elements in the environment.

Scientists use new approach methodologies (NAMs) to study genomic responses in soil test species and key microbial processes. They use gene expression studies and compare the results to the more traditional test endpoints (for example, effects on reproduction) for incorporating into the risk assessment framework.

Associated publications

Boyd P, Lemieux H, Schwertfeger D, Velicogna J, Kwan V, Scroggins R, Princz J. 2023. Investigating the Toxicity of Soluble Salt and Organometallic Forms of the Rare Earth Element, Neodymium (Nd), to Boreal Soil Invertebrates. Poster Presentation, Canadian Ecotoxicity Workshop, 50th Annual Meeting, Ottawa, ON.

Kvas S, Smith DN, Subasinghe R, Boyd P, Lemieux H, Adedokun A, Siciliano S, Princz J. 2023. Development, Optimization, and Application of Toxicogenomic Endpoints for Soil Invertebrates. 2023. Poster Presentation, Canadian Ecotoxicity Workshop, 50th Annual Meeting, Ottawa, ON.

Princz J, Boyd P, Lemieux H, Velicogna J, Scroggins R. 2021. Neodymium Toxicity (Inorganic and Organometal) in Relation to Bioavailability in Forest Soil. Poster presentation, Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Europe, Virtual Meeting.

Sources, Bioaccumulation, Exposure and Temporal Trends of Chlorinated Paraffins, Especially Medium- and Longer-Chain Congeners, in Two Canadian Top Predator Sentinel Species: Arctic Polar Bears and Great Lakes Peregrine Falcons (Robert Letcher and Kim Fernie)

Scientists will study the exposure and accumulation of short-, medium- and long-chain chlorinated paraffins (CPs; comprised of polychlorinated alkanes (PCAs)) in fat-rich tissues of wild predators in Canada’s Arctic and terrestrial ecosystems.

They investigate the occurrence and accumulation of CPs-PCAs in polar bears and peregrine falcons, apex predators and sentinel species for contaminants in Canada.  For Hudson Bay polar bears, scientists determine the influence of age and sex on PCA levels and patterns. This will help understand the sources of the chemicals, and the influence of diet to temporal and spatial trends in these wildlife species, by examining their concentrations and profiles. Working collaboratively, research and risk assessment and management scientists will determine how available these substances are to wildlife in Canada. The information generated will support Bill S-5 and thus CEPA and may be used by departmental decision-makers in Canada, by the Arctic Council (Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program (AMAP), and by Canadian representatives on the Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee under the United Nations’ Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. 

Associated publications

Kraetschmer, K., Bergman, Å., Fernendez, A., Letcher, R.J., Muir, D.C.G., Vetter, W., He, C. 2023. Recommended terms and abbreviations for polychlorinated alkanes (PCAs) as the predominant component of chlorinated paraffins (CPs). Journal of Hazardous Materials 169, 117363.

Yuan, B., Letcher, R.J. (corresponding author). 2024. Evolving accumulation of a complex profile of polychlorinated alkanes in Canadian polar bears.  Environmental Science and Technology Letters 11, 591-597.

Characterizing Avian Exposure and Toxicity of Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Including Perfluoroalkyl Acid (PFAA) Replacements (Kim Fernie and Robert Letcher)

Scientists will study the environmental hazards of novel PFAA replacements on wild birds in Canada. The replacement chemicals are concerning for regulatory scientists who oversee the use, production and management of chemicals in Canada, as replacements must still protect Canadians and wildlife. Working collaboratively, scientific researchers and regulatory scientists are determining how available these pollutants are to wildlife, and if they have any toxic effects.

Scientists will study PFAS precursors and their terminal PFAAs in various bird species across Canada, especially wild tree swallows breeding in southern Ontario. Scientists will evaluate possible effects on physiology, development, growth, and reproduction. This research will generate valuable information to support departmental activities for the management of these chemicals. These include developing federal environmental quality guidelines, under CEPA, and contributing internationally to the Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee under the United Nations’ Stockholm Convention.

Associated publications

Hopkins, K.E. (PhD student), McKinney, M.A., Letcher, R.J., Fernie, K.J. 2025. Multiple stressors and reproductive success of tree swallows: Perfluoroalkyl acids, chemical mixtures, and ecological factors. Science of the Total Environment, 1005, 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.180687.

Hopkins, K.E. (PhD student), McKinney, M.A., Fernie, K.J. 2024. A Review: Tree swallows as indicators of environmental quality. Ontario Birds. 42(2):92-100. Ontario Field Ornithologists

Hopkins, K. E. (PhD student), McKinney, M. A., Letcher, R. J., Fernie, K. J. 2023. The influence of environmental and ecological factors on the accumulation and distribution of short-and long-chain perfluoroalkyl acids in a mid-trophic avian insectivore. Environmental Pollution, 321, 121133.

Hopkins, K. E. (PhD student), McKinney, M. A., Saini, A., Letcher, R. J., Karouna-Renier, N. K., and Fernie, K. J. 2023. Characterizing the Movement of Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in an Avian Aquatic–Terrestrial Food Web. Environmental Science and Technology, 57(48), 20249-20260.

Combining traditional aquatic wildlife toxicity tests and new approach methods (NAMs) to assess the effects of bisphenol A structural analogues and functional alternatives (BPA SAFA) (Stacey Robinson, Ève Gilroy)

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that was originally developed to mimic estrogen, a natural hormone. It was never widely used in medicine. Rather, BPA became common in plastics and epoxy resins found in food packaging, adhesives, and coatings. The hormone-disrupting effects of BPA caused concerns, especially for infants. As a result, Canada banned BPA in baby bottles. However, BPA is still used in many products. Also, new chemicals known as BPA structural analogues and functional alternatives (BPA SAFAs), such as Bisphenol B (BPB), Bisphenol F (BPF), Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol AF (BPAF) have been introduced. Similar to BPA, these alternatives may pose risks to wildlife and the environment.

This research focuses on the effect of BPA and its alternatives on native Canadian species that are sensitive to environmental changes. We are studying:

• their impacts on vertebrate hormone systems, particularly sex and thyroid hormones, using amphibians
• their impacts on the development of aquatic invertebrates, using snails

Specifically, we are examining how exposure affects gene expression, regulation of molecules (for example, metabolites and lipids) and growth and development. Finally, we aim to connect molecular changes to real-world biological effects.

This work will inform regulatory activities under CEPA. Examples of such activities include environmental risk assessments and the development of environmental quality guidelines for substances. This research will also provide essential data to help build confidence in new methods that reduce the need for conventional animal testing, supporting Canada’s Bill S-5.

Associated publications

Gilroy, È.A.M., Robichaud, K., Villella, M., Chan, K., McNabney, D.W.G., Venier, C., Pham-Ho, V., Montreuil Strub, É.C., Ravary, S.A., Prosser, R.S., Robinson, S.A. 2025. Toxicity and bioconcentration of bisphenol A alternatives in the freshwater pulmonate snail Planorbella pilsbryi. Environmental Science and Pollution Research 32: 5186-5199 Toxicity and bioconcentration of bisphenol A alternatives in the freshwater pulmonate snail Planorbella pilsbryi [Open Access]

Multi-trophic assessment of oil sand-derived naphthenic acid fraction component toxicity and toxicity modifiers to support freshwater quality guideline development (Richard Frank, Robert Brua)

Naphthenic acids are organic compounds associated with oil sands mining activities. This research provides data on the effects of naphthenic acids on freshwater organisms, such as algae, molluscs, crustaceans, dragonflies, and fish. These organisms are critical to aquatic ecosystem functioning. Specifically, this research examines changes in survival, growth, reproduction, hatching, deformities, behaviour, and metabolomics.

In addition, this research examines the influence of other compounds, such as heavy metals and dissolved organic matter, on the toxicity of naphthenic acids. It provides additional information on how these other compounds may modify bitumen-derived naphthenic acid (such as O2 chemical species) toxicity. This information supports the development of a naphthenic acid federal water quality guideline for the protection of aquatic life.

Toxicity of Simple Mixtures: Cumulative Effects of Ubiquitous Waterborne Contaminants (Patricia Gillis)

Water bodies can receive a wide range of chemical inputs from natural sources and human activities in the surrounding area. This research examines the chemistry and potential toxicity of streams and rivers near different land uses. Examples of land uses studied include agriculture, urban, and industry.

Chemical analysis will determine the concentrations of metals, pharmaceuticals, salts, pesticides, nutrients, and other contaminants in a range of sampled waters.

Toxicity tests will be conducted using the sampled waters. Toxicity tests will also be conducted with the most prevalent contaminants both individually and in combination.

Data will support understanding how waters from different land uses affect sentinel biota, and also how combinations of commonly found contaminants affect aquatic organisms.

Characterizing and Optimizing Performance of the Zebrafish Embryo Transcriptomic Point of Departure (ZFE tPOD) Assay for Applications in Ecological Risk Assessment (Jason O’Brien)

Bill S-5 (titled “Strengthening Environmental Protection for a Healthier Canada Act”) provided a strong incentive to develop animal-free alternatives for toxicological testing. A promising new approach methodology for ecological risk assessment is the zebrafish embryo transcriptomic point of departure (ZFE tPOD) assay. This assay’s utility has been demonstrated in principle, but has not been rigorously validated for risk assessment applications. This research will expose zebrafish embryo to 40 chemicals from 4 different toxicity domains and measure gene-expression. Experiments will be repeated with varying experimental design and data analysis approaches. Researchers will quantify various experimental design performance metrics. This research will identify an experimental and data analysis approach that optimizes assay performance.

Pollution from racetracks and motorsports for target contaminants measured before, during, and after racing events (Agnes Richards, Alexandra Steffen)

Racetracks can release pollutants such as tire wear particles, chemicals, and metals into the surrounding environment. Some racecars still use leaded gasoline, which can also contribute to contamination. The goal of this project is to collect new information about pollutants in the air, water, and soil near racetracks. This information will help guide actions that reduce pollution from these sources.

The study focuses on tire wear particles and related chemicals, as well as metals like lead and copper.

Researchers collected samples of air, water, and soil from racetracks in southern Ontario and southern Quebec. Also, monitoring before, during, and after racing events will inform on changes over time. Samples have been submitted to ECCC laboratories and university partners for analysis.

Researchers also used passive air samplers to measure how far tire wear particles and metals travel away from the tracks. Samples of surface water runoff and soil were also taken to capture how tire wear particles and metals travel away from the tracks. Reference stations were used for all media.

Similar samples were collected near major highways to compare pollution levels. Tire wear particles were detected in all samples. Metals were about 2-fold higher at racetracks compared to reference. Air sampling showed that many of these particles are small enough to be inhaled and reach deep into the lungs. Additional sampling at racetracks revealed deposition of a powdery residue on the skin of field crew members during races; this residue is currently being analyzed for presence of tire wear particles and brake wear debris.

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