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 13, 2013

NGO News Release: Over 20 Groups Call for In-Situ Inquiry Following Ongoing CNRL Primrose Bitumen Blowouts

Over 20 organizations are calling upon the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) to take action following…

July 25, 2013

Energy Industry Disturbances and Leases in Little Smoky Caribou and A La Peche Caribou Ranges: A Step in the Right Direction

Wild Lands Advocate update, April/May 2013, by Carolyn Campbell. New mineral rights leasing in Little…

July 23, 2013

Oil Sands

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

NGO News Release: Over 20 Groups Call for In-Situ Inquiry Following Ongoing CNRL Primrose Bitumen Blowouts

Energy Industry Disturbances and Leases in Little Smoky Caribou and A La Peche Caribou Ranges: A Step in the Right Direction

Stay Out of the Water: Toxic Tailings Ponds and Threats to Wildlife

AWA News Release: Alberta Defers Logging in Ranges of Threatened Woodland Caribou

Zama City Pipeline Spill Raises Questions about Disclosure

AWA Wilderness & Wildlife Defenders: Thanks and Next Steps Needed for Little Smoky Caribou

AWA’s Letter to Alberta Energy Minister: Thanks and Next Steps

AWA News Release: Alberta Defers New Energy Leasing in Two Caribou Herd Ranges

AB Energy Minister Defers Issuing New Mineral Rights in Two Caribou Ranges

AWA News Release: Alberta Again Violates Caribou Policies With Today’s Energy Leasing

Better Cumulative Effects Assessment Needed for BC Hydro’s Proposed Site C Peace River Dam

Open Letter Concerning Suncor Toxic Water Spills into Athabasca River