In the ongoing debate over fracking and its impact on communities, a critical issue often overlooked is the disparity in residential setback regulations across different provinces and states. While the focus is often on the environmental and health risks associated with hydraulic fracturing, the distance between residential areas and active wells plays a pivotal role in mitigating these risks. This article delves into the findings of a recent study examining setback distances in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, and four American states, highlighting the stark contrast between the regulations in these regions and the potential health implications for residents.
The Shortest Setbacks in North America
One of the most striking revelations of the study is the comparison between the setback distances in B.C. and Alberta and those in the United States. B.C. and Alberta have the shortest and least protective residential setback regulations, with a mere 100-metre distance between residential areas and active wells. In contrast, California and Colorado have default setback distances of 975 metres and 610 metres, respectively. This discrepancy is particularly concerning given the potential health risks associated with living in close proximity to fracking operations.
Health Implications of Proximity
The study found that mothers living closer to active gas wells are at greater risk of having smaller babies, which can lead to significant developmental and health challenges later in life. The farthest distance within which impaired fetal growth was observed was 10 kilometres, a distance 1,000 times greater than B.C. and Alberta's currently regulated 100-metre setback distance. Other studies have reported higher rates of congenital birth defects among infants born to mothers living within 10 kilometres of an active well.
Furthermore, a shorter distance to the nearest well has been linked to more self-reported symptoms in several studies. In one community-based survey in Pennsylvania, a significantly higher proportion of survey respondents living within 457 metres of a gas well reported symptoms than those living beyond that distance. The researchers also found that the closer the well, the higher the incidence of throat irritation, sinus problems, and headaches.
Vulnerable Populations and Cumulative Impacts
The study also highlights the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations. B.C.'s shale gas industry is located in the northeast area of the province, a rural and remote part of B.C. that is the traditional territory of Treaty 8 First Nations. These communities rely on the land for food, water sources, ceremonial practices, and cultural identity. The study found that areas with high proportions of Indigenous people experienced more air pollution compared to areas with a low proportion of Indigenous people.
The expansion of active wells in rural B.C.'s northeast to meet the increasing demand from the new liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry is raising concerns. The harms from these wells are minimally regulated at best and not subject to cumulative environmental assessments. The evidence base for health harms associated with living close to active oil and gas wells emerged long after B.C.'s setback regulations were created in 2010, and the burden of these health harms is likely to worsen with the current fracking boom.
The Need for Stronger Setback Regulations
Setback regulations remain the only lever that affords some protection to those bearing the greatest health risks from shale gas development. Provincial and federal governments have made the unfortunate decision to go 'full-bore' on expanding fracking. There is an urgent need to align regulatory setbacks with environmental health evidence and best practices to protect people's health. The study underscores the importance of revisiting and strengthening setback regulations to ensure the well-being of both residents and vulnerable communities.
In conclusion, the disparity in residential setback regulations across different regions highlights the need for a more uniform and protective approach to fracking. The health implications of living in close proximity to active wells are well-documented, and the evidence base for these risks is growing. It is imperative that policymakers take action to align setback regulations with the latest scientific findings and best practices to safeguard the health and well-being of all communities affected by fracking operations.
