The ECCC Delays Phases 2 and 3 of the Federal Plastics Registry: What It Means
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) recently sent an email to stakeholders announcing an important update about the Federal Plastics Registry (FPR). The message highlights both the progress of the Registry so far and a decision to delay reporting for Phases 2 and 3.
Here’s what you need to know—what’s changing, what’s not, and how organizations can prepare.
What is the Federal Plastics Registry?
The Federal Plastics Registry is a cornerstone in Canada’s approach to tackling plastic waste and pollution. It’s designed to capture data on plastic production, use, and management across the country, offering a clear picture of plastics throughout their entire lifecycle.
According to ECCC, this open-access data inventory supports Canada’s commitment to take ambitious, evidence-based action to protect the environment and move toward a circular economy for plastics.
What did the ECCC’s email say?
ECCC shared that it has received valuable feedback from stakeholders about the complexity and challenges associated with Phases 2 and 3 reporting. In response, and “to build a system that works better for everyone,” ECCC has decided to delay all reporting requirements for Phases 2 and 3 of the FPR.
This delay will:
- Allow time to streamline and optimize reporting requirements.
- Give organizations more opportunity to collect and report high-quality, consistent data.
ECCC also plans to amend the existing Notice to reflect these changes for the calendar years 2024, 2025, and 2026.
What does this mean for Phase 1 reporting?
If your organization is responsible for reporting under Phase 1, your requirements do not change. Producers of packaging, electronics, and electrical equipment, as well as single-use or disposable plastics destined for the residential waste stream, must still report data for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 calendar years as required under the current Notice.
For full details, refer to the Notice with respect to the reporting of plastic resins and certain plastic products for the Federal Plastics Registry for 2024, 2025 and 2026.
In other words: Phase 1 reporting continues without change with the 2025 data due September 29th, 2026.
What’s next for Phases 2 and 3?
ECCC is taking a phased approach to communicate next steps:
- A Notice of Intent will be published in the Canada Gazette in Winter 2026, outlining ECCC’s plan to delay Phases 2 and 3.
- A new Notice will follow in Summer 2026, setting out reporting requirements for the 2027, 2028, and 2029 calendar years.
- Engagement opportunities will be offered throughout 2026, giving stakeholders the chance to provide input on updates to the FPR’s design and reporting structure.
ECCC will share more details about how and when engagement will occur in the coming months.
How can RLG help your organization?
As the reporting under Phase 1 continues without change, and the delay of Phases 2 and 3 gives organizations time to strengthen their data management frameworks, we can help you prepare for both. At RLG, our mission is to help producers meet their reporting obligations with ease.
We support organizations by managing data collection and submission for the Federal Plastics Registry, ensuring compliance and accuracy in reporting. We also help producers know what’s coming through Horizon Scanning, spotting upcoming regulatory changes and helping prepare for them well in advance.
RLG’s proactive approach means you stay informed, compliant, and strategically positioned as Canada’s plastics regulations continue to evolve.
Get support today
If your organization needs help preparing data for the Federal Plastics Registry or developing a strategy for upcoming reporting phases, we can help.
Contact us today to learn how RLG can support your Federal Plastics Registry compliance.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Laws are subject to interpretation and change without notice, so always consult with professional advisors and refer to primary sources. Content is accurate as of publication date but may not be regularly updated.
