A First Nation in Sarnia has filed a lawsuit against a neighbouring chemical plant. In a letter to Aamjiwnaang band members, the chief and council say the suit was filed last month against INEOS Styrolution over elevated benzene levels. The First Nation is seeking financial compensation from the company, as well as restoration of the local environment, though no specific dollar amount has been disclosed. The German-based company shut down operations in Sarnia late last year. Band leaders say they obtained company documents indicating INEOS decided to close the facility for economic reasons well before Aamjiwnaang declared a state of emergency in 2024. The lawsuit has not yet been tested in court.
