Doctors Urge B.C. Government to Halt LNG Expansion for Health Study

Medical professionals and First Nations leaders in British Columbia are calling for a comprehensive study on the health impacts of liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. This demand comes as the provincial government considers expanding the LNG industry, which has seen significant growth in recent years. On March 25, 2024, events were held simultaneously in Vancouver and Smithers, where advocates emphasized the urgent need for research before further development occurs.

Dr. Sally Harvie, a radiologist and volunteer with the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, expressed concerns about the lack of health assessments, stating, “The fact that a comprehensive study hasn’t been done yet is mind-boggling.” The gathering highlighted the potential health risks associated with LNG production, particularly in northern British Columbia, where several gas pipelines and export facilities are either under construction or being proposed.

The coalition of health professionals and Indigenous leaders presented an open letter to provincial officials, which included an extensive list of signatures. It called for a moratorium on new LNG projects until a thorough health assessment is completed. “Allowing expansion of LNG will continue to erode our already stressed health-care system, frankly, past the breaking point,” Harvie added.

The letter outlines concerns regarding air and water pollution stemming from fracking and LNG production. It also points to climate change, specifically the increased emissions from methane—a potent greenhouse gas released during LNG production. Advocates noted that these emissions contribute to severe weather patterns, including record-breaking wildfire seasons and atmospheric rivers.

In addition to advocating for a halt on LNG expansion, the group is pushing for stricter regulations surrounding air and water quality, improved protections for whistleblowers in the oil and gas sector, and an end to gas use in new buildings by the end of the year. They also stress the importance of supporting a transition towards a clean energy economy, particularly for First Nations communities, and ensuring that Indigenous groups are involved in decision-making processes related to LNG and gas development.

British Columbia’s LNG industry has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, primarily through fracking in the Montney formation in the province’s northeast. Historically, B.C. gas had limited international reach due to pipeline transportation constraints. However, with the emergence of LNG Canada in Kitimat, which delivered its first shipment earlier this summer, there is potential for a significant increase in gas fracking and exports from the region. Investors are currently considering plans to double the capacity of this major gas export project.

The health implications of LNG facilities are increasingly scrutinized. Facilities produce various air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and fine particulate matter, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions and are linked to chronic lung diseases. Tim Takaro, a professor emeritus at Simon Fraser University, has noted the growing body of research highlighting the health risks associated with these pollutants.

“B.C. does not include volatile organic compounds in its health assessment processes for LNG projects,” Takaro explained in a previous interview, underscoring gaps in the regulatory framework. The community of Kitimat has expressed heightened concern about emissions from flaring activities at local LNG facilities, which have been linked to respiratory illnesses.

Ankur Patel, a registered nurse in Smithers, shared observations about the health impacts of LNG operations on local residents, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly. “We cannot separate human health from the health of our climate,” Patel emphasized, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental and public health challenges.

The effects of gas extraction extend to water contamination as well. Family physician Ulrike Meyer reported a concerning increase in cancer diagnoses in her community of Dawson Creek, citing specific cases of glioblastoma and lung cancer. The process of fracking, which involves mixing large volumes of water with chemicals, poses significant risks of leaks. A 2020 study revealed that at least 2,300 of B.C.’s gas wells have reported leaks, with the actual number likely much higher.

Despite the increasing evidence of health risks associated with LNG development, the British Columbia Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions has not committed to conducting an independent health impact assessment. A spokesperson indicated that existing regulations under the BC Energy Regulator are designed to ensure safe operations, but advocates remain skeptical.

The federal and B.C. governments appear eager to accelerate the LNG industry, as evidenced by a recent internal government draft listing potential projects for fast-tracking. This includes LNG Canada’s second phase and the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG project. The planned North Coast Transmission Line, intended to support industrial expansion, has also been prioritized for expedited processing.

Indigenous leaders, such as Gitanyow Hereditary Chief Deborah Good, have voiced their concerns about the long-term implications of LNG projects on their territories. Reflecting on past agreements, Good stated, “In 2024, we burned the agreement,” indicating a shift in perspective as communities reassess the promised benefits versus the reality of environmental impacts.

As the situation evolves, the coalition of health professionals and Indigenous leaders plans to continue advocating for further study into the health effects of LNG development. They aim to build momentum and partnerships to ensure that the voices of those impacted by industrial expansion are heard. Dr. Harvie concluded, “We’re really happy that we’re partnering with Indigenous land protectors. Together we’re going to be stronger.”