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)

April 14, 2023

AWA Report: A Review of Suncor’s McClelland Lake Wetland Complex Operational Plan for the Fort Hills Oil Sands Project

Executive Summary: The Fort Hills Oil Sands Project is an existing Suncor-owned oil sands mine…

April 12, 2023

AER Letter in Response to AWA’s McClelland Lake Wetland Complex Report

On March 31, 2023, Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) submitted an advance copy of our report…

April 6, 2023

An Update on the Foothills Solar Hearing

Wild Lands Advocate article by: Ruiping Luo Click here for a pdf version of the article….

April 3, 2023

AWA Concerns with the McClelland Lake Wetland Complex Operational Plan

Wild Lands Advocate article by: Phillip Meintzer Click here for a pdf version of the…

March 28, 2023

Provincial Election 2023: Environmental Platforms We’d Like to See

Wild Lands Advocate article by: Carolyn Campbell Click here for a pdf version of the article….

March 22, 2023

AWA Calls for Stronger Regulatory Oversight of Coal and Oil Sands Mining Following Unreported Wastewater Spills by CST Canada Coal Ltd.

Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) is calling for stronger regulatory oversight of coal and oil sands…

January 9, 2023

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

AWA Report: A Review of Suncor’s McClelland Lake Wetland Complex Operational Plan for the Fort Hills Oil Sands Project

AER Letter in Response to AWA’s McClelland Lake Wetland Complex Report

An Update on the Foothills Solar Hearing

AWA Concerns with the McClelland Lake Wetland Complex Operational Plan

Provincial Election 2023: Environmental Platforms We’d Like to See

AWA Calls for Stronger Regulatory Oversight of Coal and Oil Sands Mining Following Unreported Wastewater Spills by CST Canada Coal Ltd.

Foothills Solar Project Threatens Frank Lake Wildlife

Youth Climate Activism in Alberta

Responsible Tailings Management Alliance

Action Alert: LARP 10-Year Review

AER Brine-hosted Minerals Engagement

Alberta Mine Financial Security Program Review