Toronto, Ont./ Traditional territories of several First Nations including the Williams Treaties First Nations, Huron-Wendat, the Anishnaabeg, Haudenosaunee, Chippewas, and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation — Ecojustice welcomes the news that INEOS Styrolution will permanently close its styrene monomer production site in Chemical Valley near Sarnia, Ontario by June 2026.
INEOS Styrolution has been the source of benzene emissions that have impacted the health and wellbeing of members of Aamjiwnaang First Nation. This includes recent leaks in April 2024 that lead to Aamjiwnaang First Nation Band Council issuing an emergency order and calling for the plant to be shut down.
Dr. Elaine MacDonald, Ecojustice healthy communities program director, said:
“Benzene is a known carcinogen and can also impact the reproductive system. Aamjiwnaang First Nation has been subject to benzene levels that would be unacceptable almost anywhere else in Canada.
“Chemical Valley is home to a significant proportion of Canada’s petrochemical plants, and Aamjiwnaang First Nation has borne a disproportionate level of harm from this industry.
“INEOS Styrolution shutting down is an important first step in addressing the legacy of environmental racism.”
