This action plan establishes a framework for environmentally sound management and control of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in North America. PCBs are a class of persistent, toxic chemical compounds that bioaccumulate in the environment and are recognized as potential carcinogens. The CEC is supporting the development of the PCB action plan in accordance with Council [CEC] Resolution #95-5, Sound Management of Chemicals. That Resolution established a framework to promote regional cooperation for the sound management, throughout their life cycles, of chemical substances of mutual concern. The PCB action plan will be one of several Regional Action Plans for chemicals of concern. To implement the decisions and commitments outlined in the Resolution, the Countries formed a Working Group of representatives from Environment Canada (EC), the Instituto Nacional de Ecología of Mexico (INE), and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Working Group selected a series of chemicals of concern—DDT, chlordane, and mercury, as well as PCBs—for consideration. The Working Group then established the PCB Task Force to develop the PCB RAP; other task forces are working on RAPs for the other chemicals selected. (...) | 
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