Ottawa wants to expand the oilsands, but the industry's wastewater problem will grow with it
The Alberta government plans to double oilsands production, but the industry faces a significant environmental challenge regarding the management of toxic tailings ponds. Indigenous leaders and environmentalists are calling for a slowdown in production until a safe method for treating and releasing wastewater is established.
Why it matters
Balancing economic growth in the energy sector with environmental stewardship remains a critical policy challenge for Canadian regulators.
Oil output in the region is set to grow and the Alberta government wants to double the amount of crude production.
Yet, ever since the first oilsands mine was built about 60 years ago, the industry has been banned from releasing any water. As a result, large tailings ponds throughout the region are filled with decades worth of industrial mining wastewater. The fluid is toxic and harmful to wildlife. For those who live in the region, they fear the harmful health effects, in addition to the impact on the environment.
All day, every day, every few seconds, air cannons blast on the edge of the tailings ponds to help deter birds, ducks and other wildlife from the water, in addition to dozens of makeshift scarecrows dressed in overalls and hard hats.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in