Oil Wells Harm Our Children: Health Risks Near Oil Drilling Sites

Can you imagine your children facing lifelong breathing problems just because they live near an oil well?

Living close to oil and gas wells increases the chances our children will face serious health issues such as asthma and reduced lung capacity, which may lead to lifelong breathing problems, and even blood-related cancers like leukemia. 

In their publication Oil Wells Harm Communities, Consumer Watchdog cites several studies that highlight risks for children living near pollution-emitting oil and gas wells:

• Leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma—Higher risk for children and youth ages 5-24
• Asthma, wheezing, and reduced lung function—Reported in residents near fossil fuel drill sites
• Premature birth—Increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth, the leading cause of infant death in the U.S.
• Low birth weight—Babies born to mothers living near oil and gas wells are more likely to be underweight
• Birth defects—Conditions like spina bifida, anencephaly, and congenital heart defects are more common
• Radioactive particles exposure—Oil wells can release harmful radiation that deposits particles in the lungs

Adults Aren’t Safe Either: The Hidden Dangers of Oil and Gas Wells

The chemicals, pollution, and radiation from oil and gas wells affect adults as well. 

A 2019 study found that “oil and natural gas extraction emits pollutants associated with cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of mortality in the United States.” Read study.

Our mental health also suffers when we live close to oil and gas drilling operations. Studies link environmental pollutants to increased rates of depression, anxiety, mood, and psychotic disorders. Learn more.

While these risks are unacceptable, other regions, and a few cities in Contra Costa have already taken steps to protect their residents. It’s time we protect our own.

The Time to Ban Contra Costa Drilling is Now

We are lagging behind. In September 2021, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to protect their citizens from the health risks of oil and gas drilling. Despite a long history of drilling, they chose to stand up for their people.

Closer to home, Alameda County acted swiftly, banning fracking in 2016 and revoking oil drilling permits in 2018—bringing an end to drilling operations there.

Here in Contra Costa County, Antioch and Brentwood are leading the way. Both have passed ordinances banning drilling.  The cities of Antioch, Brentwood, Richmond, Pinole and El Cerrito all have adopted resolutions and sent letters asking the county to ban drilling in unincorporated areas. 

County planners are listening. In the new General Plan, just adopted before the beginning of the new year, they made a commitment to do a feasibility study and prepare a drilling ordinance.  We must keep up the pressure and make sure they follow through.

Sign–and share–the Petition to Ban Oil and Gas Drilling in Contra Costa

We owe it to our children, our families, and our communities to take action now. By signing this petition, you are standing up for the health and future of all who live in our county.

Tell our leaders  to end oil and gas drilling:

• No new permits for oil or gas drilling
• Phase out existing drilling
• Provide support to transition fossil fuel workers to climate-friendly industries

Then share the petition with your community groups, clubs and organizations. Ask them to send it out to their mailing lists. We’ve got this! Sign and share.