Industrial Fire in Etobicoke Contaminates Waterways

Introduction

Cleanup crews are currently assessing the extent of runoff from an industrial fire that occurred in Etobicoke a week ago and its impact on Lake Ontario, according to the province’s environment ministry.

Contamination of Mimico Creek and Humber Creek

The ministry has reported that the runoff has affected two waterways, namely Mimico Creek and Humber Creek. Containment measures have been in place since August 11th in both creeks. However, heavy rain on Thursday caused a breach in the spill containment along Mimico Creek, allowing the spill to move further downstream. The ministry stated that cleanup crews are currently verifying and reinforcing established containment measures along the creeks.

Fire at Brenntag Canada

The industrial fire, classified as a six-alarm fire, occurred at Brenntag Canada, a chemical distribution company in Etobicoke. The company deals with oil and vehicle fluids, including lubricants and solvents. The materials that burned during the fire were petroleum products.

Impact on Wildlife

Since the fire, dead wildlife has been discovered along Mimico Creek. The Toronto Wildlife Centre reported the deaths of thousands of fish, a beaver, 10 ducks, and a mink. In addition, 86 ducks and two cooper’s hawks have been found covered in oily residue near Mimico and Humber creeks. Efforts are underway to clean and treat these affected waterfowl.

Treatment of Oily Ducks

The Toronto Wildlife Centre has implemented a process to clean the residue-covered ducks. Once captured, the ducks undergo a medical examination and are administered activated charcoal and fluids to counteract the toxins they have ingested. They are then bathed using soap and water to remove the potentially toxic substances from their feathers. The goal is to release the ducks back into their habitat once they are healthy and waterproof again.

Concern for Other Wildlife

Other animals, such as herons and deer, have also been affected by the contamination. Herons have been observed consuming the dead fish, while deer have been seen drinking the contaminated water. The Toronto Wildlife Centre urges anyone who encounters distressed or sick animals in the area to report them instead of attempting to capture or feed them.

Containment and Cleanup Efforts

The ministry is collaborating with Toronto Water and GFL Environment Inc., a waste management company, to contain and clean up the spilled materials and contaminated water. The cleanup efforts involve the placement of booms, hay bales, and underflow dams, as well as the use of vacuum trucks to collect the oil slurry. Discharge into the creek is being diverted to prevent further contamination. GFL Environment Inc. has deployed four boats to assess the extent of sludge and contaminated water in Lake Ontario.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. Goal 14: Life Below Water
3. Goal 15: Life on Land

Conclusion

The industrial fire in Etobicoke has resulted in contamination of Mimico Creek and Humber Creek, with runoff potentially reaching Lake Ontario. Efforts are underway to contain and clean up the spilled materials and restore the affected waterways. The impact on wildlife, particularly ducks and other waterfowl, has been significant, necessitating their treatment and rehabilitation. The incident highlights the importance of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to clean water, life below water, and life on land.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

   • Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater, and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally.
   • Indicator 6.3.2: Proportion of bodies of water with good ambient water quality.

2. SDG 14: Life Below Water

   • Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
   • Indicator 14.1.1: Index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density.

3. SDG 15: Life on Land

   • Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements.
   • Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

– Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials.

– Target 14.1: Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.

– Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation and restoration of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

– Indicator 6.3.2: Proportion of bodies of water with good ambient water quality.

– Indicator 14.1.1: Index of coastal eutrophication and floating plastic debris density.

– Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area.

These indicators can be used to measure the progress in improving water quality, reducing marine pollution, and ensuring the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems.

By analyzing the article, we can see that the industrial fire and subsequent runoff have led to contamination of waterways, including Mimico Creek and Lake Ontario. The cleanup and containment efforts mentioned in the article aim to address the pollution and prevent further release of hazardous materials into the environment. The presence of dead wildlife, such as fish, ducks, and a beaver, indicates the impact of the contamination on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Overall, the issues discussed in the article highlight the need to improve water quality, prevent marine pollution, and ensure the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems, which align with SDG 6, SDG 14, and SDG 15 respectively. The specific targets and indicators identified provide a framework for measuring progress towards these goals.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: cbc.ca

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