Researcher calls for better health protection for residents near oil and gas sites
研究人員呼籲加強對油氣場址附近居民的健康保護
Living near oil and gas sites poses serious risks to human health.
居住在油氣田附近對人體健康構成嚴重威脅。
Recent research highlights that current regulations, such as minimum "setback" distances, are often insufficient to shield residents from harmful pollutants.
最近的研究指出，現行法規(如「設置間距」的最低標準)，通常不足以保護居民免受有害污染物的侵擾。
Studies link proximity to drilling operations with various health issues, including respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease, and adverse birth outcomes.
研究表明，與鑽探設施靠近會導致多種健康問題，包括呼吸系統疾病、心血管疾病及不良的出生預後。
Beyond physical health, there is growing evidence of increased stress and mental health challenges among those living nearby.
除了身體健康外，越來越多證據顯示，居民的壓力與心理健康問題也隨之增加。
Air quality is a primary concern, as these sites release hazardous substances like benzene, which can increase cancer risks significantly.
空氣品質是主要擔憂，因為這些場地會釋放如苯這類危險物質，會顯著增加患癌風險。
Experts are now calling for a more comprehensive, multi-layered approach to policy.
專家正呼籲採取更全面、多層次的政策路徑。
Advocates emphasize that we must prioritize long-term public health over immediate economic gains, particularly for marginalized communities who are disproportionately affected.
倡導者強調，我們必須將長期公共衛生置於眼前經濟利益之上，特別是針對受到不成比例影響的邊緣化社群。
By implementing a formal duty of care and expanding monitoring across the entire supply chain, authorities can work toward creating safer living environments for the millions of people residing near fossil fuel infrastructure.
透過實施正式的照顧責任，並擴大整個供應鏈的監測，當局可以致力於為居住在化石燃料基礎設施附近的數百萬居民，創造更安全的生活環境。
