Four premiers now agree climate change must be factor in Energy East oil pipeline decision
(Fredericton) — The future of the proposed Energy East oil pipeline is now dependent on a comprehensive climate impact assessment as four premiers have signaled their concern for the planet now outpaces pipeline proponents.
Last week representatives from Quebec and Ontario laid out several conditions the Alberta-based TransCanada Corporation must meet in order for their governments to accept the proposal.
On Monday, Nov. 24, Premier Brian Gallant signaled his support for the criteria, calling them “reasonable” and saying it’s important to look at the long-term impacts the proposed oil pipeline would have on climate change.
Over the weekend, Alberta Premier Jim Prentice told reporters he is also prepared to work with other provincial governments on a national climate change strategy.
The conditions from Quebec and Ontario include a full environmental assessment of the project’s impact on greenhouse gas emissions; a thorough emergency response plan and compensation fund; consultation with communities and First Nations; and high technical standards to assure public safety and environmental protection.
The Conservation Council of New Brunswick says a thorough impact assessment would most likely propose a tight cap on growing emissions from Canada’s tar sands, phasing out coal emissions (already complete in Ontario), national and provincial investments in energy efficiency, and a national renewable energy program.
A recent analysis from Alberta’s Pembina Institute said the crude production needed to fill the Energy East pipeline would generate an additional 30 to 32 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year — the equivalent of adding more than seven million cars to Canada’s roads.
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To arrange an interview, contact:
Jon MacNeill, Communications Officer | 458-8747 | 261-1353 | jon.macneill@conservationcouncil.ca