Sarnia-Lambton Benzene Processing and Transportation

Sarnia-Lambton’s petrochemical industry is integrated in nature – local facilities exchange products and have agreements in place to leverage assets and resources to increase efficiencies and enhance competitiveness. This collaborative approach extends beyond the region, contributing to broader economic impacts.

Over several decades, the local petrochemical industry has shown its ability to adapt to evolving energy policies and demonstrated its commitment to decarbonization and innovation. This positions Sarnia-Lambton’s petrochemical cluster to make substantial contributions toward provincial and national sustainability targets.

To continue contributing to energy transition and carbon reduction, regulatory certainty is essential. Clear and consistent regulations are needed to ensure Sarnia-Lambton’s petrochemical cluster remains a leader in innovation and sustainability.

The petrochemical industry significantly contributes to Sarnia-Lambton’s economy, providing numerous jobs and boosting the local GDP. Operating facilities are committed to engaging with the community through various initiatives and programs, ensuring that residents are informed about local industrial impact and future developments.

The impending closure of the INEOS Styrolution facility is disappointing news and unfortunate for local industry. Local companies that provided INEOS Styrolution with benzene (a by-product of refining and petrochemical manufacturing) are now assessing other options. The preferred solution would be to process local benzene at a facility within the region in order to reduce environmental impacts, stimulate economic growth, and improve logistical efficiency.

One of the alternative options being pursued is increasing benzene movement to other regions in North America via additional rail, truck, and marine transportation. While regulations and safe procedures are in place, incremental risks do exist related to additional benzene movement. Local facilities have extensive experience in handling and shipping dangerous goods safely and efficiently. The incremental shipments of benzene in the region are not expected to be excessively high and are manageable with existing safety practices.

To ensure safe and environmentally friendly operations, BASES collaborates with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP) and the Aamjiwnaang First Nation on a local air monitoring network. This partnership monitors air emissions and provides valuable data to the public through the Clean Air Sarnia and Area website.

Looking ahead, local facilities are focused on future investments and innovations that align with sustainability and decarbonization goals. These efforts will ensure long-term economic and environmental benefits, reinforcing Sarnia-Lambton’s position as a leader in the petrochemical industry.

By maintaining regulatory certainty, exploring sustainable solutions for benzene processing, and continuing to collaborate on air quality monitoring, we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Sarnia-Lambton’s petrochemical industry.

Media Inquiries:

Tracy Krull, Senior Communications Advisor

519-383-1222

[email protected]

 About BASES

BASES is Sarnia-Lambton’s Industry Partner, a leading advocate for worker safety, emergency preparedness, and environmental monitoring in the Sarnia-Lambton region. With a legacy of more than five decades of excellence, BASES is dedicated to advancing the well-being of the community and the environment through continuous improvement and collaborative partnerships. For more information, please visit www.lambtonbases.ca.