Jul 06, 2012 – 10:24 AM
Coal the real threat
Wind energy is the right step forward for Ontario if we want to decrease air pollution and create a healthier environment.
Still, some find the low-level swishing sound of the turbines an annoyance, or claim that turbines cause sickness such as headaches. However, recent reviews by Ontario’s chief medical health officer and by the Australian government have confirmed that there is no evidence of direct adverse health effects from wind turbines. As well, the noise is no more disturbing than the sound of your air conditioner and a turbine is no less attractive than a tall building.
The health and environmental costs of coal plants are the real threat.
According to a study prepared for the Government of Ontario, coal-fired electricity generation in 2009 caused 246 deaths, 342 hospital admissions, 406 emergency room visits and almost 123,000 illnesses such as asthma attacks. At their peak, Ontario’s coal plants spewed almost as much air pollution as seven million cars, and they continue to fill our lungs with carcinogens, neurotoxins and endocrine disrupters while pumping out noxious greenhouse gasses.
Air pollution leads to days off from work and school and affects daily life for many people, yet we have a clean air alternative. Wind energy is the right path forward and paired with solar and other renewable energy sources they can meet Ontario’s energy needs. We can have real green energy without dirty coal or risky and expensive nuclear plants.
Laura Anonen
Executive Assistant,
The Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE)
via NiagaraThisWeek Article: Coal the real threat.
