Residents near Ontario First Nation report sickness due to high benzene levels detected for weeks

Staffers of the Aamjiwnaang First Nation have been experiencing health issues, including headaches, nausea, and dizziness, prompting a family of three to rush to the hospital. The chaos unfolded in this First Nation in southwestern Ontario, near Sarnia in an area known as “Chemical Valley.” The band issued a warning after detecting extremely high levels of benzene, a cancer-causing chemical, in the air.

Saige Hallet-Plain, a 19-year-old expectant mother, expressed her concerns about the well-being of her baby, fearing for any potential difficulties. Many residents in the small First Nation of 900 people reported feeling sick or needing hospitalization. A Global News analysis of air monitoring data showed significant spikes in benzene emissions leading up to the urgent alert issued on April 16.

The toxic air has been attributed to INEOS Styrolution, a chemical manufacturer in the area. The Ontario Environment Ministry has set limits for benzene levels, with the province not regulating the hourly limit. Despite repeated orders to reduce emissions, INEOS has not faced fines for infractions.

Residents are calling for urgent action from all levels of government to shut down the plant. The lack of action and regulatory oversight has left community members frustrated and angry. The crisis continues to put the health of residents at risk, with calls for immediate reforms to address systemic racism in the environmental protection regime.