Canada's Aamjiwnaang First Nation has declared a state of emergency after harmful benzene emissions surged from a plastics factory in Ontario, sparking health concerns and renewed calls for environmental justice.
The Frankfurt-based company INEOS Styrolution shut down its facility on April 20 after provincial authorities issued a compliance order. Over 10 residents have reportedly sought hospital care for symptoms like headaches and breathing issues in recent weeks.
‘This isn’t just about us—it’s a wake-up call,’ said councilor Janelle Nahmabin, who is attending UN plastics treaty talks in Ottawa. She hopes the crisis amplifies global demands to regulate plastic production and petroleum extraction.
The community of 1,000, surrounded by industrial plants, has long raised alarms about pollution. Chief Christopher Plain stated the emergency declaration will help secure resources to address the crisis. Meanwhile, the Ontario government continues investigating the leak.
The timing highlights a bitter irony: as world leaders debate plastic pollution solutions, Aamjiwnaang residents are living its consequences.
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