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)

March 10, 2017

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

Canada-Alberta Failing to Address Peace-Athabasca Delta Threats

Update: Alberta Pipeline Spill Risk Concerns

News Release: Alberta Pipeline Spill Report Misses Environmental Impacts

AWA News Release: Alberta’s Hay River Basin at Risk: New Pollution Research

AWA News Release: Protected Areas over Paddocks for Alberta’s Endangered Caribou

Letter to the Editor: Coal mine puts fish in danger

AWA Letter: Canadian Environmental Assessment Act Review

AWA News Release: Energy Lease Deadline Extensions Positive for Alberta Caribou

News Release: Feds failing to prevent migratory bird deaths on tar sands tailings ponds

Take Action: Put a Stop to Migratory Bird Deaths on Tailings Ponds

Update: Pembina Climate Summit Draws Hundreds

Historic Woodland Caribou Draft Range Plan Released