Have you ever noticed black, greasy, or gritty soot on your home, outdoor furniture, neighbourhood play structures, or even on your pet’s paws? If so, it’s important to take action by reporting it. Soot, a byproduct of incomplete combustion of wood and fossil fuels, is more than just an unsightly nuisance—it’s a serious environmental concern that affects both the climate and our community’s health.
Soot, primarily composed of black carbon, is a significant component of fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5). When released into the atmosphere, black carbon is highly effective at absorbing light, which contributes to warming the air and surfaces. This warming can alter weather patterns, disrupt ecosystems, and accelerate the melting of snow and ice. Additionally, exposure to soot has direct implications for human health, particularly for those living near industrial areas.
In Ward 4, which includes Hamilton’s industrial North End, soot and other pollutants are an ongoing concern for residents. The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) is responsible for monitoring soot fallout, and your reports play a critical role in enabling an effective and timely response from the MECP. By sharing what you see, you contribute to a broader effort to safeguard our environment and public health.
Recently, the federal government passed legislation aimed at developing a national strategy to address environmental racism and promote environmental justice. This initiative is a step forward in protecting communities like ours, which are often disproportionately affected by industrial pollution. You can read more about this important legislation [here].
At the local level, we’re taking concrete steps to mitigate the environmental impact on Ward 4. We’re collaborating with the City of Hamilton’s Forestry team to plant evergreens along Leaside Park, creating a natural buffer against pollution from Nikola Tesla Boulevard. Additionally, we’re working with the Transportation team to explore the possibility of installing a noise wall—a project initiated by a concerned Parkview resident a few years ago.
If you encounter soot or other pollutants in your neighbourhood, don’t hesitate to report it. Your vigilance is vital in our collective effort to protect Ward 4’s environment and ensure a healthier future for all residents. You can report environmental concerns at any time by contacting:
Hamilton District Office: 905-521-7650
24-hour Spills Action Centre: 1-866-MOE-TIPS (663-8477)
Email: [email protected]
Online: Report Pollution and Spills
Together, we can make a difference in preserving the environmental quality of Ward 4 and beyond.