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)

November 5, 2012

Bill 8: Government Listens with Selective Hearing

The recent announcement that the Government of Alberta will introduce Bill 8 (Electric Utilities Amendment…

Transmission Lines

October 31, 2012

Wind Power

October 29, 2012

Wind Power

September 19, 2012

Coal
Kakwa

September 11, 2012

ENGO News Release: Sixteen Years after Being “Protected,” Rumsey Natural Area Sees a Halt to New Oil and Gas Access

Sixteen years after it was officially “protected,” Rumsey Natural Area may finally be able to…

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

Bill 8: Government Listens with Selective Hearing

Sixteen Years after Being “Protected” Rumsey Natural Area Sees a Halt to New Oil and Gas Access

McClelland Wetlands: Mining Our Outstanding Peat Wetlands Should Be Passe

AWA Comments to AUC on Wind Energy Regulation

Coalition calls on panel to reject Shell Jackpine oilsands mine expansion

letter to AWA from Gov’t of Alberta re Eastern Slopes Coal Development

Coal Association of Canada-Briefing Note

AUC Wind Power Regulatory Process Review Stakeholder Consultation Summary

A Spill is Worth a Thousand Words

A Spill is Worth a Thousand Words

AWA Letter: Eastern Slopes Coal Development

ENGO News Release: Sixteen Years after Being “Protected,” Rumsey Natural Area Sees a Halt to New Oil and Gas Access