Energy - Alberta Wilderness Association

We believe in a fundamental need for wilderness that is free of industrial incursion; a network of legislated protected areas is currently the only framework under which this can be ensured. Outside of such areas, exploration and development must be conducted in an environmentally responsible manner. Full-field life-cycle planning must be required for all new developments including phase-out, remediation, and reclamation. Adequate reclamation liability must be assessed on a per-project basis that accounts for all remediation and reclamation costs, and does not leave Albertans vulnerable to major financial risks.

AWA believes Alberta’s wilderness and natural capital are non-renewable resources of immeasurable value, and must be considered as such and given priority in land-use planning. An overarching land-use plan is desperately needed in Alberta to set targets for all sectors, determine thresholds and establish priorities for land use throughout the province. Conservation areas must be designated with legal protection.

When considering land disturbance impacts, the cumulative footprint of all past, present and planned developments upon the landscape must be considered. Energy development does not take place in isolation: it occurs on a landscape also impacted by forestry, residential and recreational developments. The combined footprint of all of these activities must be considered in planning decisions.

Collectively, we know that the economic value of the ecosystem services performed by natural ecosystems for humankind far exceeds that of industrial development.

AWA has been involved with Shell Canada as they work to restore landscapes once active with drilling and extraction; Waterton 12 is one such site (shown above). (N. Douglas)

Seen in the photo are AWA and Shell Canada employees discussing the process and early results of reclamation efforts at this site that has reached its full life-cycle. (C. Olson)

August 6, 2025

The Alberta Energy Regulator Approved Northback’s Exploration Program on Grassy Mountain. Now what?

By Kennedy Halvorson Read the PDF version here. On May 15, the Alberta…

July 30, 2025

AWA’s feedback on the discussion paper: Path forward for evaluating policy options for managing the accumulation of oil sands mine water in tailings ponds

Earlier this year, Environment and Climate Change Canada released a publication entitled Discussion Paper: Path…

Oil Sands

July 30, 2025

AWA believes that energy exploration and development must be regulated in a manner that is consistent with the maintenance of wilderness values.

The Alberta Energy Regulator Approved Northback’s Exploration Program on Grassy Mountain. Now what?

AWA’s feedback on the discussion paper: Path forward for evaluating policy options for managing the accumulation of oil sands mine water in tailings ponds

To Protect or Not?

Summit Coal Inc. wants Mine 14 public hearing adjourned, sends complaints to Minister of Energy and Minerals

AER Refuses to Reconsider Weak Penalty for Kearl Mine Tailings spill

Joint News Release: Albertans left in the dark on coal company settlements

AWA’s written submission for Summit Coal’s Mine 14 Public Hearing

Adventure for Wilderness, Cochrane North Field Trip – June 7, 2025

Twenty Minutes in Front of the AER

AWA’s Statement of Concern regarding Coalspur Mines’ Vista Phase II Coal Project application

Engagement Guide for the Upper Smoky Sub-regional Plan Survey

The Alberta Energy Regulator approved Northback’s exploration program on Grassy Mountain. Now what?