Canada's oil sands represent a new frontier of oil production. They allow us to quench, at least temporarily, our thirst for oil. But at what cost? The development of the oil sands, characterized by high demand for energy, intensity of environmental impacts in the boreal forest and significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, is an unprecedented challenge. In this early stage of the 21st century, the oil sands are emerging as a focal point of discussion about the future of energy production and consumption.
Over the last 15 years, dramatic changes have taken place in the previously inaccessible oil sands region of northeastern Alberta. In 1995, government and industry set a goal of producing one million barrels per day by 2020: this goal was surpassed in 2004. The new goal is now five million barrels per day by 2030.
Canada's so-called "black gold," now regarded as an abundant, secure and affordable source of crude oil, is the focus of international attention. This new wealth comes at a cost.
Managing the environmental impacts arising from this pace and scale of development is a considerable challenge that must be urgently addressed. As Alberta's northern boreal forest is torn up for oil sands development, the environmental impacts to air, land and water in Alberta are increasing rapidly. Not surprisingly, Alberta is now Canada's pollution capital for industrial air pollutants. And the oil sands are the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions growth in Canada.
A more positive future is possible.
The natural resources of our country are ours to decide how best to manage. Sound environmental management and protection need to accompany the economic opportunities arising from oil sands development. Furthermore, the intensity of energy requirements and environmental impacts of development are clear indications that we need to fundamentally re-evaluate how we produce and consume transportation fuels. Now is the time to focus our resources on implementing energy systems that allow us to restore our environment and build healthy and resilient communities.
Our Work on Oil Sands
For more than a decade, the Pembina Institute has been working to address the environmental issues arising from oil sands development. As a member of the Oil Sands Environmental Coalition, the Pembina Institute has led the review of environmental assessments for proposed oil sands developments and intervened in both provincial and federal regulatory hearings. The Institute is also highly engaged in multistakeholder initiatives focused on regional environmental management and monitoring in the oil sands. A significant part of our work is communicating our research to the public, media and policymakers.
