St. FX study links oil and gas industry pollution to negative health outcomes

A groundbreaking new study conducted by St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, N.S. has shed light on the health impacts of pollution from the oil and gas sector in Alberta. Using a combination of census, health, and other data, researchers were able to examine the effects of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular health outcomes.

Lead author Martin Lavoie, part of the university’s FluxLab team of environmental science researchers, emphasized the importance of this study in quantifying the impact of the oil and gas industry on public health. He noted that while there is existing research on the health effects of air pollution in the U.S., there has been a lack of similar studies in Canada.

The study revealed that the proximity to oil and gas wells plays a significant role in increasing the odds of negative health outcomes. The research found that individuals living near a higher number of wells had a nine to 21 percent higher likelihood of experiencing respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Lavoie highlighted the need for more field measurements and data on pollutants, citing previous research that uncovered significant underestimations of methane emissions. He stressed that there is still much to learn about the true impact of oil and gas industry pollution on public health.

Alberta, known for its significant oil and gas production, accounts for the majority of Canada’s output in these sectors. The study also identified that rural residents and Indigenous communities were more likely to be exposed to pollutants from the industry. Dr. Joe Vipond, a member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, pointed out the lack of research in these areas due to the isolation of these communities.

Vipond emphasized the importance of population-wide studies like the one conducted by St. FX in understanding broader health trends that may not be apparent on an individual level. He hopes that this study will prompt further research into the health impacts of oil and gas industry pollution.

In light of these findings, Lavoie suggested that stricter regulations on processes like flaring and venting could help reduce emissions and protect vulnerable populations. Flaring, the burning off of excess natural gas, and venting, the release of unburned gases into the atmosphere, are common practices in the industry that contribute to air pollution.

Overall, this study serves as a wake-up call to the health risks associated with oil and gas industry pollution. By conducting more research and implementing stricter regulations, we can work towards safeguarding public health and mitigating the harmful effects of air pollution in communities near oil and gas operations.