A group of researchers based in Hamilton has uncovered insights into the issue of soot accumulation in neighborhoods surrounding the city’s industrial hub. Residents have long grappled with a persistent problem of a dirty, black residue coating their properties, with a recent surge in complaints highlighting the severity of the situation.
Sarah Styler, an environmental chemistry associate professor at McMaster University, along with Grace Yao, a PhD candidate under Styler’s guidance, are key figures in the “What’s the Grime?” study aimed at unraveling the mystery behind the soot. Their investigation, conducted in 2024 and 2025 with the help of volunteers gathering samples across the city, revealed the presence of harmful chemicals linked to coal burning in the soot. Moreover, elevated levels of dust and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were detected in the vicinity of the industrial zone in northeast Hamilton.
By collaborating with Environment Hamilton and securing a $15,000 grant from the university in 2024, Styler spearheaded efforts to shed light on the soot predicament that has plagued Hamilton for years. Both Styler and Yao, residing in east Hamilton and Corktown respectively, have experienced firsthand the impact of the soot issue on their communities.
The research initiative involved the deployment of sampling kits to collect soot samples from 50 volunteer households across the city, followed by periodic analysis of the samples by scientists. According to Styler, the study’s focus on 13 different PAHs highlighted the toxic nature of the substances present in the soot, which she likened to a viscous mess.
While the study’s scope was limited in exploring all potential sources contributing to the soot fallout, Yao emphasized the significant role of coal combustion in generating the PAHs observed. Styler acknowledged the necessity for enhanced monitoring and analytical capabilities to pinpoint the specific industrial sources responsible for the PAH emissions.
Styler remarked that the study’s findings regarding the industrial origins of the soot may not come as a surprise to residents residing near the affected areas. Despite the community’s longstanding concerns, there has been a perceived lack of transparent information from official channels, fueling frustration among locals.
In response to inquiries, a Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks spokesperson mentioned ongoing testing at industrial facilities in Hamilton to identify potential sources of the soot. Styler’s team’s research contradicts earlier claims suggesting road dust as the primary component of the soot, reinforcing the community’s assertions of industrial origins.
The researchers plan to present their findings at a community meeting on August 20, with further dissemination of results following peer review. They aim to upscale their study by engaging 200 volunteers, exploring additional compounds present in the soot, and delving into effective cleaning methods for the affected areas.
