Ontario Suspends Ineos Styrolution's Environmental Approval Over Benzene Emissions

The Ontario Ministry of the Environment has ordered Ineos Styrolution, a petrochemical facility in Sarnia, to halt its production operations due to unacceptable benzene emissions. The ministry stated that recent readings at the site continue to be above acceptable levels, despite previous provincial orders requiring the company to reduce benzene emissions.

The issue was first flagged by the neighboring Aamjiwnaang First Nation, which monitors air quality in the area. The community recently reported that citizens fell ill and there were high emissions of the cancer-causing substance from the Ineos Styrolution facility. "The Aamjiwnaang First Nation has long advocated for stronger monitoring and more stringent regulations due to health concerns in the community," said a ministry spokesperson.

In response, the ministry has suspended Ineos Styrolution's Environmental Compliance Approval and mandated several conditions. These include suspending production, removing benzene storage, repairing equipment, installing vapor control, and implementing a comprehensive benzene monitoring and community notification plan. The company must complete these actions and submit a startup plan to the ministry for review before it can resume normal operations.

Why this matters: This incident highlights the ongoing environmental and health concerns faced by communities living near industrial facilities. It underscores the importance of robust monitoring, strict regulations, and swift action by authorities to safeguard public health and hold companies accountable for their emissions.

Ineos Styrolution claims that its own monitors did not detect any emissions outside prescribed limits and that it has invested $4.4 million in benzene emission reduction over the last five years. However, the ministry determined that additional action is necessary to address the ongoing problem. "The ministry will continue to closely monitor the company's progress in addressing the issues before allowing the facility to resume normal operations," the spokesperson added.

Key Takeaways

• Ontario orders petrochemical plant to halt production due to unacceptable benzene emissions
• Neighboring Aamjiwnaang First Nation reported citizens falling ill from high benzene emissions
• Ministry suspends plant's environmental approval and mandates actions to address benzene issue
• Company claims its monitors did not detect emissions outside limits, but ministry deems action necessary
• Incident highlights importance of robust monitoring and regulations to protect public health