Community Impacts of Fuel Spills: a Case Study from BC’s Northern Coast

The BCCDC/NCCEH Environmental Health Seminar Series provides an opportunity for learning and knowledge exchange on a variety of environmental health topics. The seminars can be attended in-person or online.

Speakers:
Chief Councillor Marilyn Slett, Heiltsuk Nation
Linda Pillsworth, Manager of Environmental Public Health Services, FNHA
Angela Eykelbosh, Environmental Health & Knowledge Translation Scientist, NCCEH/BCCDC

Abstract:
In the first of two BCCDC Environmental Health Seminars focusing on oil/fuel spills and public health, Chief Marilyn Slett and Linda Pillsworth will speak on the still-unfolding events and impacts of the Bella Bella diesel spill that occurred in October 2016. This case study will provide a brief timeline of the spill events, community perspectives on health impacts, a description of measures used to support the community, and a discussion of existing and upcoming challenges.

A brief primer on the health effects of large marine spills on human health, and the critical gaps in our knowledge of the impact of these events, will be presented by Dr. Angela Eykelbosh.