CPMA responds to Federal Court ruling on plastic packaging

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) has responded to the Federal Court of Appeal's decision to rule in favour of the Government of Canada’s listing of plastic manufactured items under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA).

The association is calling on the government to “consult with the industry on future plans to regulate packaging to ensure that any regulatory actions arising from [the] decision do not impose undue harm on the fresh produce sector,” states a press release.

The association believes the ruling may raise the risk that the federal government returns to the regulatory intentions it set out in 2023, which designated plastic manufactured items as “toxic” under CEPA.

READ: Short-sighted plastics ban would cause food shortages, increased prices: OPINION

CPMA president Ron Lemaire said that the government’s 2024 and 2025 studies highlight the “essential role that functional, safe and efficient packaging plays in protecting fresh produce, reducing food loss and waste and maintaining affordability for consumers.”

CPMA will engage actively with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and federal officials.