The Canadian government has ordered petrochemical plants in Ontario to implement stringent measures to control benzene emissions after a hazardous release forced an indigenous community to declare a state of emergency.
On Friday, Federal Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault announced the directive aimed at the petrochemical industry in Sarnia, Ontario, a city less than 300 kilometers west of Toronto. The area, known as “Chemical Valley,” hosts approximately 40 percent of Canada’s petrochemical plants, according to research by the University of Toronto.
Last month, the Aamjiwnaang First Nation, home to around 1,000 residents, declared a state of emergency following a chemical leak from INEOS Styrolution’s plastic manufacturing plant. The incident led to at least ten people seeking hospital care. INEOS Styrolution, a unit of the Frankfurt-based INEOS Group, subsequently shut down its facility on April 20.
“It is simply unacceptable that the people of Aamjiwnaang First Nation and Sarnia face ongoing issues with poor air quality,” Guilbeault stated. “Indigenous peoples have a right to a healthy environment and too often are impacted by polluting industries.”
The new order requires certain petrochemical facilities to implement vapor-control measures, specifically targeting those with fence-line benzene concentrations exceeding 29 micrograms per cubic meter during any two-week sampling period between March 1, 2023, and February 29, 2024.
The Aamjiwnaang First Nation welcomed the government’s action, expressing hope that the measures will enhance air quality and protect the health of their community, which is surrounded by industrial operations.
This case underscores the broader issues of environmental justice and the disproportionate impact of industrial pollution on indigenous communities. It raises important questions about the balance between industrial development and the rights of local populations to a safe and healthy environment.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
