Brandon’s gas plant: a health decision

Manitoba faces a crucial decision regarding a proposed gas plant in Brandon, one that could have far-reaching consequences for public health and the environment. Doctors are urging leaders to reconsider this $3 billion investment in three new gas-fired turbines, arguing that it would lock the province into burning harmful fossil fuels for decades.

Burning gas for electricity emits not only carbon dioxide, the leading driver of climate change, but also a toxic mix of pollutants like nitrogen oxides, fine particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds such as benzene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde. These pollutants are linked to severe asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, dementia, premature births, and premature deaths. Would you want your family and neighbors to breathe these pollutants?

The proposed plant would be located less than two kilometers from a city of over 50,000 people, significantly increasing the risk of asthma, respiratory illness, and hospitalization. This burden falls disproportionately on children, older adults, and low-income households. The plant's emissions would contribute to climate change, exacerbating vector-borne illnesses, wildfire seasons, and other health crises.

However, there are cleaner, more cost-effective alternatives. Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec are demonstrating how to transition to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, geothermal, and battery storage, all while avoiding the health risks and climate impacts associated with fossil gas. Manitoba should redirect these funds towards these cleaner, more sustainable options, which would prevent disease, lower healthcare costs, build resilient communities, and create lasting jobs.

As doctors, we see the symptoms but recognize that the root cause of illness lies in our dependence on fossil fuels. Let's protect the health of Manitobans by leaving the past behind and embracing a healthier, more sustainable energy future.