Energy and the Environment
 |
|
| When discussing the proposed offshore oil and
gas development in the province, most British Columbians are adamant
about the need for proper environmental protection. News stories
of large oil spills causing massive ecological damage have, for several
decades, created a negative image of the petroleum industry with
respect to environmental stewardship. The Exxon Valdez spill in 1989
off the coast of Alaska ended all reviews at the time regarding lifting
of the federal/provincial moratoria for B.C. offshore oil and gas
exploration. The offshore industry has continually sought to make
operations more environmentally friendly, while technological advancements
and detailed environmental assessments have reduced all forms of
pollution significantly. The question remains if an acceptable level
of risk can be established for any future B.C. offshore development.
In reviewing the environmental impacts of offshore development it is helpful to examine each stage of operations and the specific risks associated therein. It is also important to relate impacts to the ecosystem and communities in and around the Queen Charlotte Islands, as conditions there are unique from those in most other offshore producing regions. The most obvious and potentially dangerous environmental impact would be oil spills primarily from accidents involving transport tankers or wellsites and drilling/production platforms (blowouts). Emergency response procedures in the event of a spill must be clearly defined and a variety of countermeasures must be available in an effort to minimize negative impacts on both ecosystems and local communities. Another environmental concern is greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the continued consumption of fossil fuels. Canada is a signatory of the Kyoto Accord, an international treaty seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in response to the growing problem of global climate change. In an effort to move away from traditional energy sources, research and development into alternative energy sources such as wind, solar and hydrogen-based fuels have been gaining favour in recent years. At this time, however, alternative energy sources are not capable of meeting the increasing energy consumption trends in British Columbia. This has led the current government to establish a new energy policy to find viable solutions to meeting both present and future demands. Debate will need to focus on whether or not development of the potential offshore resources is an effective short and long term solution to B.C.'s energy needs. Find Out More: Environmental Impacts | Oil Spills | Energy Consumption & Demand | Alternative Energy Sources | Climate Change |
| References | Offshore Oil & Gas Moratorium | Links | About EnergyBC | © MJ Whiticar, Biogeochemistry |  |