Canada has taken decisive action to address pollution concerns in Ontario after a chemical release forced a First Nation community to declare a state of emergency. Federal Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault issued an order to petrochemical plants in Sarnia, Ontario, following a release of the cancer-causing chemical benzene from a facility.
Last month, the Aamjiwnaang First Nation declared a state of emergency after a chemical release from a plastic manufacturing plant resulted in at least 10 people being hospitalized. The order issued by Guilbeault requires petrochemical production facilities with benzene concentrations above 29 micrograms per cubic meter to implement vapor-control measures.
“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 Aamjiwnaang First Nation, surrounded by industrial facilities, welcomed the order as a step towards protecting air quality in the community. The Frankfurt-based company responsible for the chemical release had already shut down its facility in response.
According to University of Toronto research, around 40% of Canada’s petrochemical plants are located in the Sarnia area, known as “Chemical Valley.” The government’s action aims to address environmental concerns and protect the health of residents in the affected communities.