As Ontario grows more reliant on natural gas for electricity generation and expands gas service to more homes and communities, a critical issue is emerging: the significant environmental and health impacts of fracking. The growing use of natural gas, primarily extracted through hydraulic fracturing or “fracking,” increases greenhouse gas emissions, endangers public health and undermines years of progress in combating climate change.

Methane Emissions: A Climate Crisis

Natural gas is often touted as a cleaner alternative to coal, but this narrative is misleading. While burning natural gas produces less carbon dioxide (CO2) than coal, natural gas’ primary component, methane, is a much more potent greenhouse gas. Methane’s global warming potential is more than 80 times greater than CO2 over 20 years, making its emissions 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 example, research indicates that methane emissions from oil and gas facilities in British Columbia were 1.6 to 2.2 times higher than reported.

Health effects: from cancer to birth defects

The health impacts of fracking are alarming. Communities near fracking sites have higher rates of respiratory disease, cancer, and other serious health conditions. Children are especially vulnerable, with studies linking proximity to fracking sites to increased risks of congenital heart defects and childhood cancer. The chemicals used in fracking, including PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals,” do not biodegrade and can contaminate drinking water, soil, and crops. These chemicals can also contaminate groundwater and soil, posing serious 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 often located near fracking sites and bear the brunt of the environmental and health harms caused by these operations.

PFAS contamination of water supplies near fracking sites poses long-term health risks, including cancer and effects on the immune system. The persistence of these chemicals in the environment and their potential to bioaccumulate require urgent regulatory oversight.

Fracking-induced seismic activity

Another consequence of fracking is the increase in 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 increased, posing risks to infrastructure and public safety. In areas such as Oklahoma, there has been a noticeable increase in the frequency and intensity of earthquakes associated with fracking activities.

Environmental degradation: water and land

Fracking operations require significant amounts of water, often from local sources, which can place a strain on community resources. In British Columbia, the average frack uses between 5 and 100 million litres of water. In addition, wastewater discharges and the risk of contamination from spills and leaks pose significant threats to surface water and groundwater. Contamination of agricultural land and natural ecosystems further exacerbates the environmental damage of fracking.

Underreported emissions and industry accountability

Underreporting of methane emissions is a widespread problem. In Ontario, local fugitive emissions are estimated to be significantly higher than industry reports suggest. Studies in Canada and the U.S. have consistently shown that methane emissions from oil and gas facilities are much higher than reported figures. This discrepancy underscores the need for stricter monitoring and regulation to hold the industry accountable.

Enbridge, a major player in Ontario’s gas distribution, has faced criticism over its handling of gas leaks. Testimony from Unifor workers shows that leaks often go unchecked for long periods of time, allowing significant amounts of methane to escape into the atmosphere. The company’s plans to reduce compliance testing are further exacerbating these concerns, potentially leading to more unchecked leaks.

The way forward: reducing dependence on natural gas

Ontario’s push to expand natural gas use 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 such as heat pumps for cold climates are efficient and environmentally friendly options for heating homes.

Addressing the challenges of fracking requires a multifaceted approach. Improved 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 development of safer, more sustainable extraction technologies. Furthermore, the transition to renewable energy sources can reduce reliance on fracking and its associated impacts.