The Ongoing Oilsands-Enviro Debate

I cannot express my displeasure effectively with the current status of discussion on the oilsands and environmental issues.  It is not that I do not support further advancement of the processes and procedures in oilsands - it is my job to be creative and innovative in this process.  And there is no end to improvement - we are always learning new things that can have applications in new areas.


But let's take a look at what is being said.  Dead ducks.  Massive compromises to water and land.  Traditional land use practices compromised.  The dirtiest oil on the planet.  Some of these issues have very very limited merit.  Many of these types of extremist views are not constructive - and only erode the credibility of those espousing them - though there always is the argument that strong polarizations can help for healthy debate.


As an accomplished environmental professional of 30yrs that chose long ago to participate constructively in this discipline, I can attest fully to the depth and content and nature of the processes for planning, constructing and operating an oilsands project.  These are highly complex and integrated operations.  Applications, permitting, licencing and followup monitoring requirements are lengthy and exhaustive.  Can there continue to be improvements?  Of course.  But to lay claim to the world's dirtiest oil is untrue.


As one that has traveled to globe considerably and had the great fortune of experiencing other cultures across the globe, perspective is a valuable tool.  As an amateur  photographer I can seriously appreciate images frozen in time.  Maybe there would be some value in people gaining perspective - try leafing through some of the photos of world renowned Edward  Burtynsky, a Canadian photographer (http://www.edwardburtynsky.com/index.html).  There are no environmental challenges at these locations because - the environment is DEAD - there are no ducks, no anything.

And no, this is not what the end result will be with the oilsands.  We already have some results of what the oilsands will look like.  And there will continue to be improvements as technologies develop and lessons are learned.  Photos of reclaimed mine land below provided by CAPP (Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers)