Insights Header image
Insights Header image
Insights Header image

Québec Industrial Establishments Face Substantial Increase To Environmental Discharge Fees

March 9, 2023 Environment Bulletin < 1 read

Among the several amendments proposed by the Quebec government to the environmental regulatory framework in an omnibus package published in the Gazette officielle du Québec on February 22, 2023, is a significant increase to the annual duties payable by establishments subject to the Regulation respecting the operation of industrial establishments for the discharge of contaminants into the environment.

Proposed measures include:

Increase of the rate used to calculate duties from $2.20 to $9.08 per ton of discharges into water and the atmosphere

Substantial increase of the weighting factor used to calculate duties for discharges of arsenic and cadmium into the atmosphere

These increases would allow the government to collect over 10 million dollars more each year. How these funds would be used remains vague: the government indicated that it is considering reinvesting them to improve the environmental performance of the industrial sector and the protection of air and water quality. More generally, the government aims to support the transition to a greener, more prosperous and more sustainable economy.

The proposed amendments are open for a 45-day comment period, which is set to expire on April 8.

by Martin Thiboutot

Cautionary note

The foregoing provides only an overview and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are cautioned against making any decisions based on this material alone. Rather, specific legal advice should be obtained.

© McMillan LLP 2023

Insights (5 Posts)View More

Featured Insight

A Shopping Cart of Competition Law Changes

The Government announced amendments to the Competition Act as part of its announcement regarding combatting escalating grocery prices.

Read More
Sep 18, 2023
Featured Insight

CRA Audit Requirements: Can a Taxpayer Contest Unreasonable Deadlines?

When the CRA demands information or documents within an unreasonable period, what options are available? A recent decision of the FCA offers some guidance.

Read More
Sep 18, 2023
Featured Insight

Deadline for Federally Regulated Employers to Provide Existing Employees with Employment Statements Fast Approaching

Amendments to the Canada Labour Code require federally regulated employers to provide existing employees with employment statements by October 7, 2023.

Read More
Sep 18, 2023
Featured Insight

New “Safety Index” for Heavy Vehicles to Be Developed by Quebec

The Quebec Standards Bureau is set to develop and publish by November 2024 a safety index for heavy vehicles to protect vulnerable road users.

Read More
Sep 13, 2023
Featured Insight

Expansion of OSFI’s Powers to Supervise Non-Financial Risks: Compliance Challenges for FRFIs

On September 6, 2023, OSFI issued a letter to industry outlining its steps to supervise emerging non-financial risks.

Read More
Sep 12, 2023