About ASEQ-EHAQ
Association pour la santé environnementale du Québec · Environmental Health Association of Québec
A Canadian charity working so that people living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) are recognized, supported, and able to take part in everyday life. Everyone deserves the right to breathe.
Who we are
A community built on care and action
The Environmental Health Association of Québec (ASEQ-EHAQ) is a registered charity dedicated to helping people who live with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). We recognize the suffering this disability causes and offer practical solutions, support, education, and advocacy so people can manage their health and regain access to the spaces they need.
We are an organization built and run by people who believe change is necessary. It is unacceptable to watch people suffer and do nothing. Our goal is simple: for MCS to be recognized, and for people who live with it to receive appropriate care and social services across Québec and Canada.
Read our mission, vision & history
Our identity
The meaning behind our logo
"Everyone deserves the right to breathe."
Our logo represents the connection between people and the environment. It reflects our mission to protect health, create safer environments, and advocate for individuals and communities affected by Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Through awareness, research, and collective action, we work to ensure that everyone has the right to breathe safely and live in environments that support their well-being.
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Left figure — The Advocate
Burnt OrangeProfessionals, employers and allies who drive change and advocate for policies, accommodations and safe, inclusive environments.
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Central figure — Hope & Voice
Sunflower YellowThe person living with MCS, at the centre — symbolizing lived experience, hope, visibility and being heard.
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Right figure — Knowledge & Care
Steel Blue-GreyHealthcare providers, researchers and institutional partners who bring knowledge, evidence and care.
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Far-left leaf — Growth & Resilience
Olive GreenDeep, grounded, enduring natural environments and the resilience required to protect them.
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Centre-left leaf — Care & Clean Air
Sky BlueClean air, calm, safe clinical spaces, healthcare and research, and accessible, low-exposure environments.
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Centre-right leaf — Vitality & New Growth
Lime GreenRenewal, forward motion and the strength of people with MCS who continue to adapt, advocate and build community.
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Far-right leaf — Urgency & Action
Burnt OrangeUrgency, advocacy and the call to action to create safer spaces.
Our palette
Our colours & their meaning
What the logo stands for
Environment
The four leaves reflect how environmental quality is linked to health.
Community
Three figures, three communities, one goal — moving forward together.
Advocacy
Raised arms and heard voices symbolize recognition, inclusion and safer spaces.
Hope
The yellow centre symbolizes that change is possible and hope leads the way.
A healthier environment. Stronger communities. Brighter futures.
By the numbers
MCS in Canada today
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is more common than many people realize.
Our story
From five people to a movement
ASEQ-EHAQ began in 2004, after many appeals from people living with toxic injury. One of the first meetings took place in a Westmount park — five people, many so intolerant to perfumes and chemicals that they could not find a building they could safely enter, gathered in the one place they could all tolerate.
They dared to dream of reaching others with the same condition, of healthy spaces that could give them their freedom back, and of treatment and support. What started with five people has grown into a national community working together for recognition, care, and change.
See our full historyOur work
What we do
Five ways we support people living with MCS.
Healthy, affordable housing
Advancing an ecological, low-toxicity housing project so people with MCS have safe places to live.
Resources for daily life
Lists of healthier products for personal care, cleaning, laundry, maintenance, and construction.
Education and awareness
Helping the public understand MCS and how to reduce exposure to known and suspected triggers.
Direct support
Information and services that improve quality of life for people living with MCS and their families.
Research and knowledge
Collaborating on research into environmental exposures, health, diagnosis, and treatment of MCS.
Our projects
What we've built together
A few of the programs the community has created since 2004.
ECOASIS
An affordable, healthy housing project focused on indoor air quality — safe living spaces and a community to connect with.
Hand in Hand Across Québec
Member-led virtual workshops that ease isolation for seniors and others living with MCS, building a safe, shared community.
Your Voice Matters
A space for people with MCS to share their story in their own words, so this often-overlooked disability is seen and understood.
Workshops & webinars
Free sessions for medical communities, employers, landlords, families, and people with MCS on safer, healthier living.
MCS & COVID-19 study
A collaboration with clinicians at the Environmental Health Clinic to improve access to healthcare and essential services.
Month of May
Each May — and on May 12, MCS Awareness Day — we host events, advocacy, and education to raise awareness worldwide.
Recognition
MCS is gaining recognition
Progress that supports the people we serve.
Prix Papillon
ASEQ-EHAQ was honoured with the Prix Papillon, recognizing our advocacy and contribution to the community.
American Medical Association
The AMA adopted policy recognizing fragrance sensitivity, including MCS, as a condition that can substantially limit major life activities, and supporting fragrance-free environments.
UN CRPD
The UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has referenced MCS, affirming the right to equal access, reasonable accommodation, and protection from discrimination.
Our people
The people behind the work
A volunteer board, medical advisors, staff, and members who keep us focused on the people we serve.
Our sister organization
ASEQ-EHAQ works alongside EHAC-ASEC, our national sister organization, to extend support and advocacy for environmental health across Canada.
Visit EHAC-ASECGet involved
Be part of the change
Learn more
Explore the organization
Mission, Vision & History
Why we exist, where we are going, and how we began in 2004.
Read moreGovernance & Community
Our board, medical advisors, team, and volunteers.
Read moreStories & Remembrance
Member testimonies and a space to honour those we remember.
Read moreTake Action
Become a member, volunteer, or help us push for recognition of MCS.
Get involved