Study finds Alberta oil and gas pollution linked to higher health risks
A new study from St. Francis Xavier University shows residents living near oil and gas sites in Alberta face a 9% to 21% higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Andrew Lam reports for CBC News.
In short:
- The study analyzed health and census data to measure health impacts tied to proximity to oil and gas wells in Alberta.
- Indigenous and rural communities face higher exposure due to their locations near industrial sites.
- Experts say more research is needed on pollutant emissions and advocate for stricter regulation on flaring and venting.
Key quote:
"If the oilsands and its tailing ponds existed within the city limits of Calgary, you'd be damn sure that we’d have studies looking at what the health impacts of that are."
— Dr. Joe Vipond, emergency physician and past president of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment advocacy group
Why this matters:
Air pollution from oil and gas operations can exacerbate chronic health conditions, especially in vulnerable communities. Improved regulations and research could mitigate these risks and inform public health decisions.
Read more: Alberta's environmental plan leans on oil with a green twist
