Quebec automotive paint and supply company fined $25,000 for violating the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999

MONTRÉAL, Sept. 28, 2018 /CNW/ - Canadians value a safe and clean environment. Environment and Climate Change Canada's enforcement officers strive to ensure that businesses and individuals comply with federal environmental laws and regulations that protect Canada's natural environment.

On September 21, 2018, company 9330-1208 Québec Inc. (operating as Les Produits Prodip.CA) was fined $25,000 after pleading guilty, in the Montréal Courthouse, to one count of contravening the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Automotive Refinishing Products Regulations pursuant to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. In addition to the fine, the company was ordered to pay $5,145 to cover the cost of destroying the non-compliant paint. The fine will be directed to the Environmental Damages Fund.

In 2016, Environment and Climate Change Canada's enforcement officers conducted an investigation, which revealed that the company sold automotive refinishing products containing volatile organic compounds in excess of the allowable limit under the Act.

Volatile organic compounds contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone and particulate matter, which are the main ingredients of smog. Smog is known to have adverse effects on human health and the environment. Studies indicate that air pollution, including smog, is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer and heart disease.

As a result of this conviction, the company's name will be added to the Environmental Offenders Registry.

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Quick Facts

• Volatile organic compound emissions from consumer and commercial products are a significant contributing factor in the creation of air pollution in urban areas.
• The Department's enforcement officers conduct inspections and investigations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. They strive to ensure that regulated organizations are in compliance with environmental legislation.
• The Environmental Damages Fund is administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada. It was created in 1995 to provide a mechanism for funds received as a result of fines, court orders, and voluntary payments to be directed to projects that will benefit our natural environment.

Associated Links

• Volatile organic compound concentration limits for automotive refinishing products regulations
• Environmental Damages Fund
• Environmental Offenders Registry

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SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada