Christopher T.
1/5
The mill expels rank "steam" that blows through the area, and reduces the air quality as far as Prince William and even beyond. There are days when I leave my house in the morning and my eyes water, and am left with a gross taste in my mouth.
Pollutants from AV Nackawic Mill and Their Health Impacts
Total Reduced Sulfur (TRS) gases (e.g., hydrogen sulfide, mercaptans): Rotten egg odour. Short-term exposure causes eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and coughing. High exposure can cause dizziness, breathing problems, or even unconsciousness. Long-term exposure worsens asthma and other respiratory illness.
Sulphur Dioxide (SOâ): Colourless gas with sharp odour. Causes lung and throat irritation and can trigger asthma attacks. High levels lead to chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and worsen heart disease. Children, seniors, and people with lung conditions are most at risk.
Particulate Matter (PMâ.â
and PMââ): Tiny airborne particles from combustion. PMâ.â
can enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Short-term exposure causes coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, and eye irritation. Long-term exposure contributes to asthma, COPD, cardiovascular disease, and premature death. PMâ.â
also affects the heart and brain.
Chlorine (Clâ): Greenish-yellow gas used in pulp bleaching. Exposure causes eye, skin, and lung irritation, coughing, and chest pain. Higher levels can result in severe lung injury, fluid in the lungs, and can be life-threatening. Ongoing exposure worsens asthma and bronchitis.
Chlorine Dioxide (ClOâ): Yellow-green bleaching gas that is toxic even at low levels. Causes coughing, wheezing, sore throat, and eye irritation. Higher exposure damages lung tissue and causes breathing difficulties. Prolonged exposure may lead to chronic bronchitis-like symptoms.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NOâ): Reddish-brown gas from combustion in boilers and kilns. Causes airway irritation and reduced lung function. Known asthma trigger leading to wheezing and increased hospital visits. Long-term exposure can decrease lung growth in children and increase respiratory infections.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Carbon-based gases such as benzene and formaldehyde released during pulp processing. Short-term effects include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and throat irritation. Long-term effects include cancer risk and damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
Fugitive Emissions (from effluent treatment): Uncontrolled releases, often TRS gases, with strong odour. Cause headaches, nausea, and irritation of the lungs and eyes.
