16. The Impacts of Road Salting on Wildlife in Kingston, Ontario

Abstract

The cold icy winter climate of Kingston is dangerous for driving commuters and can be treacherous for pedestrians. To prevent slippery conditions, roads are often salted using a basic sodium chloride mixture which has been shown in many studies to be detrimental to wildlife. Generally, policy makers and governing bodies have fought harder to ensure the safety of human lives over those of plants and animals – decisions that have caused road salting to continue for many years. We believe that the harmful impacts on the environment are numerous and should no longer be overlooked by the decision makers. In response to this problem, we are confident that there are solutions that can be implemented which can protect the livelihood of humans in the winter and reduce the negative impacts that are being forced on the environment. For example, using environmentally friendly alternatives such as sand and EcoTraction may have significant impacts on the conservation of wildlife throughout Eastern Ontario.