Defend Salmon from the Toxic Threat of 6PPD-q
November 26, 2024
By: Meghan Rooney
Our rivers and streams are facing an invisible threat that’s killing salmon and harming entire ecosystems: Known as 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-q), this toxic chemical is created when tire particles break down, and wash into waterways with every rainfall. It’s already been linked to the sudden death of coho salmon and we’re only beginning to understand its impacts on other aquatic life.
Despite the threat 6PPD-Q poses, Canada is yet to assess the toxicity of the chemical.
Right now, public comments are open to demand government action under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act—but the deadline is December 4, 2024.
This is a chance to help protect salmon from one of the many threats they face. Please send your letter today.
6PPD-q FAQ
What is 6PPD-Quinone?
6PPD-Quinone (6PPD-q) is a chemical byproduct created when 6PPD, a compound used in vehicle tires to prevent wear and cracking, reacts with ozone in the environment. This chemical washes off roads during rain and enters waterways.
Why is 6PPD-Quinone a concern?
Research shows 6PPD-Quinone is highly toxic to some species of salmon, especially coho. It can cause sudden death in salmon exposed to even small amounts, threatening their populations and ecosystems that rely on them.
How does 6PPD-Quinone get into the water?
When it rains, particles of tire rubber containing 6PPD are washed off roads and into storm drains. These drains often lead directly to rivers and streams, where salmon live and spawn.
What impact does it have on salmon?
6PPD-Quinone has been found to be lethal to coho salmon, killing them within hours of exposure. Other salmon species and aquatic life may also be affected, but more research is needed to understand the full impact.
Is 6PPD-Quinone harmful to people?
The effects of 6PPD-Quinone on human health are not well understood. Current research focuses on its environmental impact, particularly on fish and aquatic ecosystems.
What is being done to address 6PPD-Quinone in Canada?
Right now, the federal government is considering prioritizing the assessment of 6PPD and 6PPD-q under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.
Are there any regulations in place for 6PPD-Quinone?
Right now, there are no specific regulations in Canada for 6PPD-Quinone. However, its use in tires and its environmental impact are under review.
What solutions are being explored?
Possible solutions include developing alternative chemicals for tires that are less harmful to the environment, upgrading stormwater infrastructure to filter out harmful particles, and implementing better road runoff management practices.
What can I do to help?
- Tell the federal government to prioritize the assessment of 6PPD by sending your letter before December 4, 2024!
- Advocate for better stormwater management in your community.
- Spread awareness and help drive change about the impacts of 6PPD-Quinone on salmon by sharing our call to action.
Share This Story!
Defend Salmon from the Toxic Threat of 6PPD-q
November 26, 2024
By: Meghan Rooney
Our rivers and streams are facing an invisible threat that’s killing salmon and harming entire ecosystems: Known as 6PPD-quinone (6PPD-q), this toxic chemical is created when tire particles break down, and wash into waterways with every rainfall. It’s already been linked to the sudden death of coho salmon and we’re only beginning to understand its impacts on other aquatic life.
Despite the threat 6PPD-Q poses, Canada is yet to assess the toxicity of the chemical.
Right now, public comments are open to demand government action under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act—but the deadline is December 4, 2024.
This is a chance to help protect salmon from one of the many threats they face. Please send your letter today.
6PPD-q FAQ
What is 6PPD-Quinone?
6PPD-Quinone (6PPD-q) is a chemical byproduct created when 6PPD, a compound used in vehicle tires to prevent wear and cracking, reacts with ozone in the environment. This chemical washes off roads during rain and enters waterways.
Why is 6PPD-Quinone a concern?
Research shows 6PPD-Quinone is highly toxic to some species of salmon, especially coho. It can cause sudden death in salmon exposed to even small amounts, threatening their populations and ecosystems that rely on them.
How does 6PPD-Quinone get into the water?
When it rains, particles of tire rubber containing 6PPD are washed off roads and into storm drains. These drains often lead directly to rivers and streams, where salmon live and spawn.
What impact does it have on salmon?
6PPD-Quinone has been found to be lethal to coho salmon, killing them within hours of exposure. Other salmon species and aquatic life may also be affected, but more research is needed to understand the full impact.
Is 6PPD-Quinone harmful to people?
The effects of 6PPD-Quinone on human health are not well understood. Current research focuses on its environmental impact, particularly on fish and aquatic ecosystems.
What is being done to address 6PPD-Quinone in Canada?
Right now, the federal government is considering prioritizing the assessment of 6PPD and 6PPD-q under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.
Are there any regulations in place for 6PPD-Quinone?
Right now, there are no specific regulations in Canada for 6PPD-Quinone. However, its use in tires and its environmental impact are under review.
What solutions are being explored?
Possible solutions include developing alternative chemicals for tires that are less harmful to the environment, upgrading stormwater infrastructure to filter out harmful particles, and implementing better road runoff management practices.
What can I do to help?
- Tell the federal government to prioritize the assessment of 6PPD by sending your letter before December 4, 2024!
- Advocate for better stormwater management in your community.
- Spread awareness and help drive change about the impacts of 6PPD-Quinone on salmon by sharing our call to action.
