pollution, oilsands

Pollution is a big problem around the globe, and a new report recently released shows that the air and water pollution levels in and near the oilsands close to Fort MacMurray have risen over the past two years. There are a number of stations which monitor the level of air quality and water pollution, and these stations are situated along the route between Fort MacMurray and Fort MacKay. The actual numbers range from 2 to 3, still below the 4 that causes serious concern, but it is still alarming that the levels have gone up so much. According to the report that was released

“ESRD will work with specific stakeholders whose activities result in air emissions … to inform the investigation and assist in identifying management actions that may be necessary to address point and non-point source emissions.” An updated report is expected to be released at the end of the year.

Much of the increase in pollution in Alberta has been seen near the oilands operations of some of the largest oil companies who operate in the area, including Shell, Suncor, CNRL, and Syncrude. The emissions that were detected by the monitoring stations involved sulfur dioxide and nitrogen, but so far none of the results have been higher than a 3. In Alberta the pollution level can not exceed a 4 because anything higher poses a risk to human health, and if these levels are reached then steps would be taken to immediately address them and this could include suspending operations in the area if necessary.