Study: PA ranks high for health impacts of oil and gas flaring emissions
By Danielle Smith | Keystone State News Service
April 22, 2024 | Full story
“There’s adverse birth outcomes, there’s cancer outcomes.”
Jackson Zeiler, public health analyst for the Environmental Health Project
A new study raised red flags about respiratory health in Pennsylvania, particularly for those living near oil and gas activity. The study by GeoHealth said nationwide, oil and gas venting and flaring exacerbate asthma in 73,000 children, including nearly 12,000 in Pennsylvania.
Air Quality and Health Impacts of Onshore Oil and Gas Flaring and Venting Activities Estimated Using Refined Satellite-Based Emissions (18-page PDF)
“Volatile Organic Compounds are a big part of these emissions, which have a whole host of health effects, including respiratory health issues, different neurological effects like headaches and dizziness for people who are working in those facilities, and people who live really close by.”
Jackson Zeiler, public health analyst for the Environmental Health Project
Zeiler noted flaring also contributes to an increased risk of hospitalizations, emergency room visits, worsening asthma and even premature death. But the energy industry said flaring is needed to minimize pressure at well sites, for testing and other reasons.
He also recommended advocating for greater setback distances between well sites and residential areas to minimize exposure.
The Energy Age 