A new citizen-led study has detected elevated levels of toxic metals near the Stablex hazardous waste treatment plant in Blainville, Quebec, raising concerns among local residents and environmental advocates.
Study findings
Researchers from the Blainville Citizens' Coalition, WaterShed Monitoring, the University of Montreal, and Climat Québec presented their findings at a press conference in Montreal on Friday. The study found concentrations of metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium in soil and water samples collected near the plant, which processes hazardous waste from across the province.
Professor Sébastien Sauvé of the University of Montreal said the levels exceed provincial guidelines in some areas, posing potential risks to human health and the environment. "We are seeing a pattern of contamination that requires immediate attention from regulators," he stated.
Community response
Marie-Claude Archambault of the Blainville Citizens' Coalition called for a thorough investigation and stricter oversight of the facility. "Residents have been concerned for years about emissions from this plant. Now we have scientific evidence that warrants action," she said.
Sonja Behmel of WaterShed Monitoring emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and transparency. "Communities deserve to know what is being released into their air, water, and soil," she added.
Industry and regulatory reaction
The Stablex plant, operated by a subsidiary of Waste Management, has faced previous scrutiny over its operations. In a statement, the company said it complies with all environmental regulations and is reviewing the study. Quebec's Environment Ministry has not yet commented on the findings but is expected to launch an investigation.
Martine Ouellet, head of Climat Québec, urged the government to take immediate steps to protect public health. "We cannot afford to wait. The evidence is clear, and we must act now to prevent further contamination," she said.
