Case Study: Proactive Government Relations

How Does Proactive Government Relations Benefit Members?

ISSUE

In 2008, the federal government declared Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM) as “CEPA toxic,” which meant it could be banned or its uses severely restricted. It has important uses as a paint and adhesives additive as well as a widely used resin barrier in food packaging thereby impacting a range of valuable product lines. 

ACTION

CPCA aligned with other sectors and their member companies in a coalition and reversed the “CEPA toxic” designation of VAM based on sound science with effective advocacy. 

RESULT

Sector compliance savings were conservatively estimated to be a minimum of $30 million in Canada and $270 million across North America. This was the first time the federal government reversed such a decision, all based on sound science and the weight of evidence brought to their attention by CPCA. Members were pleased.