When it comes to moving chemical products across Canada, responsibility isn’t optional—it’s the mission. At Responsible Distribution Canada (RDC), that mission has defined everything they do for nearly four decades.
Led by President Catherine Wieckowska, RDC is a national trade association representing companies involved in the handling, storage, and transportation of chemicals and ingredients. Their flagship initiative, the Responsible Distribution program, sets the standard for health, safety, and sustainability across the supply chain.
“Our member companies commit to responsible distribution as a condition of joining,” says Wieckowska. “We practice what we preach—and we make sure they do, too.”
The Responsible Distribution Program: Canadian Roots, Global Reach
Pioneered in Canada, the Responsible Distribution program has been adopted by RDC’s counterparts around the world. Built on seven core elements, it’s a third-party audited system that helps ensure companies manage risk while protecting people, the environment, and local communities.
Companies who commit to the program are audited by environmental firms to verify compliance. “The spirit of RD is absolutely a passion of mine,” says Wieckowska. “As a human being, as a mother, I care deeply about safety and sustainability.”
Affiliates Like Canadian Alliance Help Make It Happen
RDC’s membership includes both distributors and affiliate companies. Distributors handle the products directly, while affiliates—like Canadian Alliance Terminals—provide services such as storage, freight forwarding, and 3PL support.
Canadian Alliance recently joined RDC as an affiliate, following a recommendation from existing RDC members. That endorsement wasn’t taken lightly.
“We don’t just let every business into the association,” Wieckowska explains. “We align ourselves with ethical companies. The fact that Canadian Alliance came recommended meant something.”
Getting Involved—and Making an Impact
Though their partnership is new, Canadian Alliance has already made a strong impression.
“They’ve really jumped in,” says Wieckowska. “We always say joining RDC is like joining a hockey team. You can buy the gear and pay the dues, but if you don’t show up to practices or games, you’re not truly part of it.”
From attending committee meetings to contributing data on tariff-related challenges, Canadian Alliance has stepped up.
“They’re showing up, offering their expertise, and helping to raise the standard,” she adds. “That means they’ll get full value out of the experience—and so will we.”
More Than Compliance—It’s Community
For Wieckowska, who’s been with RDC for nearly 19 years and took on the role of president three years ago, the work is personal.
“I’m so proud of the community we’ve built,” she says. “A lot of members join for our regulatory expertise or resources—but they stay because of the people. We’re an inclusive, engaged group where competitors sit at the same table to improve the industry.”
That sense of shared purpose is part of what motivates her every day.
“Everyone in this industry knows that if something goes wrong, we all wear it. So we come together to prioritize health, safety, and sustainability—for the sake of our people and our planet.”
Looking Ahead to 40 Years—and Beyond
As RDC approaches its 40th anniversary in 2026, the focus remains clear: driving safe, sustainable practices across the Canadian supply chain. And partners like Canadian Alliance Terminals are helping move that vision forward.
“We’re so excited to have Canadian Alliance on board,” says Wieckowska. “They’ve embraced the opportunity, and their involvement strengthens the entire network.”
With passionate leadership, a strong volunteer base, and a growing network of responsible partners, RDC is well-positioned to keep raising the bar for decades to come.