Petrolia Landfill on Oil Heritage Road. Image captured from Google Maps.Petrolia Landfill on Oil Heritage Road. Image captured from Google Maps.
Sarnia

Environmental research tests being done at Petrolia landfill

Scientific testing is underway at Waste Management's Petrolia landfill as part of an ongoing international research initiative.

The environmental research is being led by St. Francis Xavier University, based in Nova Scotia.

"Landfills generate methane, which is a potent greenhouse gas, and the goal of these tests is to evaluate a range of methane detection technologies that can help improve environmental monitoring and support long-term sustainability," read a public notice.

This latest round of testing is scheduled to take place from January 24 to January 31.

During the testing period, residents near the landfill may notice increased activity, such as flying drones, planes, and other specialized equipment carrying methane detectors.

"To safely simulate the release of methane, natural gas will be released under controlled and safe conditions. These tests are carefully planned and monitored by university researchers."

The project has been approved by the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, and the Ontario Technical Standards and Safety Authority.

The research initiative will build on the work conducted between 2023 and 2025.

Testing took place last year in June and May.

The landfill on Oil Heritage Road stopped accepting waste in 2016.

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