As Ontario ramps up its reliance on natural gas for electricity generation and expands gas connections to more homes and communities, a critical issue is emerging: the significant environmental and health impacts of fracking. The increasing use of natural gas, primarily extracted through hydraulic fracturing or “fracking,” raises greenhouse gas emissions, endangers public health, and undermines years of progress in combating climate change.
Natural gas is often touted as a cleaner alternative to coal, but this is a misleading narrative. While burning natural gas produces less carbon dioxide (CO2) than coal, the primary component of natural gas, methane, is a far more potent greenhouse gas. Methane’s global warming potential is over 80 times greater than CO2 over 20 years, making its release during gas extraction, transportation, and storage a major environmental concern. Studies have shown that methane emissions are chronically underreported, contributing significantly to climate change. For instance, research indicates that methane emissions from oil and gas facilities in British Columbia were 1.6 to 2.2 times higher than reported.
The health implications of fracking are alarming. Communities near fracking sites experience higher rates of respiratory diseases, cancers, and other severe health conditions. Children, in particular, are vulnerable, with studies linking proximity to fracking sites to increased risks of congenital heart defects and childhood cancers. The chemicals used in fracking, including PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals,” do not break down and can contaminate drinking water, soil, and crops. These chemicals can also contaminate groundwater and soil, posing severe risks to local communities.
The burden of these health impacts often falls disproportionately on low-income and marginalized communities, exacerbating social inequalities. These communities are frequently located near fracking sites and bear the brunt of the environmental and health damage caused by these operations.
PFAS contamination of water supplies near fracking sites poses long-term health risks, including cancer and immune system effects. The persistence of these chemicals in the environment and their potential to bioaccumulate necessitate urgent regulatory scrutiny.
Another consequence of fracking is the increased occurrence of earthquakes. The injection of high-pressure fluids into the ground can destabilize geological formations, leading to seismic activity. This has been observed in regions with intensive fracking operations, where the frequency and intensity of earthquakes have risen, posing risks to infrastructure and public safety. In areas like Oklahoma, there has been a noticeable increase in the frequency and intensity of earthquakes correlating with fracking activities.
Fracking operations require substantial amounts of water, often sourced from local supplies, which can strain community resources. In British Columbia, the average frack uses between 5 and 100 million liters of water. Additionally, the disposal of wastewater and the risk of contamination from spills and leaks pose significant threats to surface water and groundwater. The contamination of agricultural land and natural ecosystems further exacerbates the environmental toll of fracking.
The underreporting of methane emissions is a widespread issue. In Ontario, local fugitive emissions are estimated to be significantly higher than industry reports suggest. Studies across Canada and the U.S. have consistently found that methane emissions from oil and gas facilities are much higher than reported figures. This discrepancy highlights the need for stricter monitoring and regulation to hold the industry accountable.
Enbridge, a significant player in Ontario’s gas distribution, has faced criticism for handling gas leaks. Testimonies from Unifor workers reveal that leaks are often left unaddressed for extended periods, allowing significant amounts of methane to escape into the atmosphere. The company’s plans to reduce compliance testing further exacerbate these concerns, potentially leading to more unchecked leaks.
Ontario’s push to expand natural gas usage raises concerns about its alignment with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Instead of investing in fossil fuel infrastructure, sustainable and renewable energy sources offer viable alternatives. Technologies like cold-climate heat pumps are efficient and environmentally friendly options for heating homes.
Addressing the challenges posed by fracking requires a multifaceted approach. Enhanced regulatory frameworks are essential to ensure accurate reporting of methane emissions and to mitigate environmental and health risks. Investments in research and development can foster the creation of safer, more sustainable extraction technologies. Additionally, transitioning to renewable energy sources can reduce reliance on fracking and its associated impacts.
