Oil sands blamed for toxins contamination

摘要

Vancouver-Contrary to government and industry claims, development of the Alberta oil sands is responsible for elevated levels of toxins in the Athabasca River, the major waterway through the oil sands region, says a new study by North American scientists. Toxic concentrations in seven elements- mercury, lead, cadmium, copper, nickel, silver and zinc-exceed those recommended by the Alberta and Canadian governments for the protection of aquatic life, the study said, concluding that the oil sands industry “substantially increases loadings” of toxins in the river.