Premier Doug Ford to Consult Ministry of Environment as Cancer-Causing Chemicals Found in Hamilton Air

Premier Doug Ford has expressed his intention to consult with the Ministry of Environment following the detection of cancer-causing chemicals in the air of Hamilton, Ontario.

When questioned about the recent findings on Tuesday, Ford responded, “I’m going to have to look more into that,” and indicated that he would discuss the matter with Minister of Environment, David Piccini.

Over the past two years, the City of Hamilton, with the support of Health Canada’s funding, has been conducting air quality monitoring using over 60 air monitors installed on street poles throughout the city. The research has revealed concentrations of benzo(a)pyrene, a known carcinogenic chemical, that exceed the province’s air quality guidelines.

In response to Premier Ford’s remarks, a spokesperson for Minister Piccini emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding Ontario’s air quality and protecting public health. The spokesperson stated that the government is actively collaborating with industries in Hamilton to reduce emissions, including making investments in the iron and steel sector to eliminate the use of coal. The minister’s spokesperson also highlighted the plan to electrify operations in support of green steel production, which is expected to significantly improve air quality in Hamilton.

According to Matthew Adams, the air quality expert overseeing the study, the pollution levels in Hamilton are comparable to smoking one cigarette per day. Notably, the presence of the carcinogenic chemical was detected throughout the city, not solely in areas adjacent to steel mills, which are typically associated with the emission of such harmful substances.