Exploring the Role of Public Health in Climate Change Initiatives and the Mining Industry in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Background: Climate change is a global crisis that is impacting population health. With its significant expansion, the mining industry in Ontario, Canada has the potential to contribute to the development of green energy technologies, but can also threaten the climate and population health. Research has begun to explore the impact of extractive industries on climate change but has not examined the barriers for climate change initiatives and policy implementation in Ontario in relation to population and environmental health. This research aims to address the role public health can play in promoting climate change initiatives and policies in extractive industries in Ontario.

Objectives: The objectives of this research are to (1) understand the role that public health could play in mitigating the impact of Ontario’s mining industry on the environment; (2) understand what barriers might prevent public health from playing a more active role in climate action within the mining industry in Ontario; and (3) explore what key actions could be taken to address barriers to allow public health to take an active role in the extractive industry in Ontario.

Methods: This study employed a qualitative methodological approach using semi-structured interviews as a primary method of data collection. Interviews were conducted with 12 key stakeholders, including policy makers, representatives of public health units, government workers, researchers and not for profit agencies. Data was analyzed utilizing a critical realist lens using inductive, thematic analysis.

Findings: This study displayed the complexity of the government priorities in the green energy transition and opposing viewpoints of environmental and health advocates. The findings suggest that public health should play a larger role in advocating for health to be at the forefront of climate change initiatives in the mining industry in Ontario. It highlighted how to mitigate barriers and tensions to public health interventions while seeking to utilize or implement health frameworks that have not yet been applied in the mining sector in Ontario.

Conclusion: There is potentially a role for public health to have in regard to policy creation, advocacy and implementation in public health units across Ontario. Public Health Ontario could be viewed as a body to provide scientific knowledge and evidence for industries and public health units in relation to climate change initiatives and the mining industry. There is a lack of collaboration between industry, health units, government and community. Current regulations and policy do not reflect the needs of surrounding, impacted communities and the climate crisis.