In a significant move to protect the environment and public health, Canada has ordered petrochemical plants in Ontario to implement stricter measures to control benzene emissions. This decision comes after a recent chemical leak from a facility in Sarnia forced the Aamjiwnaang First Nation to declare a state of emergency.
Federal Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault addressed the issue, emphasizing the unacceptable impact of poor air quality on the Aamjiwnaang community. \"Indigenous peoples have a right to a healthy environment and too often are impacted by polluting industries,\" Guilbeault stated.
The affected community, home to 1,000 residents and situated in Sarnia's notorious \"Chemical Valley,\" has been battling pollution from numerous industrial facilities. Last month, a release from INEOS Styrolution's plastic manufacturing plant led to at least ten hospitalizations and the temporary shutdown of the facility on April 20.
Under the new order, petrochemical production facilities must enforce vapor-control measures, especially if benzene levels exceed 29 micrograms per cubic meter during any two-week sampling period between March 2023 and February 2024. This regulation aims to significantly reduce harmful emissions and safeguard the health of the surrounding communities.
Research from the University of Toronto highlights that approximately 40 percent of Canada's petrochemical plants are concentrated in the Sarnia area, underscoring the region's vulnerability to industrial pollution.
The Aamjiwnaang First Nation community welcomes the government's action, hopeful that it will lead to improved air quality and better protection for its residents.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
