Coal news and updates

In May 2020, the Alberta Government announced that they were removing blanket environmental protections – particularly the 1976 coal policy – that were in place since the 1970s.

 

This decision was made in order to develop open-pit coal mines in some of the province’s most ecologically sensitive areas. This meant that applications for construction would be sent to the Alberta Energy Regulator, without the previous restrictions.

 

At the time, Alberta Energy Minister Sonya Savage said the province’s move was a “common-sense” decision aimed at creating “certainty and flexibility for industry.”

 

“Rescinding the outdated Coal Policy in favour of modern oversight will help attract new investment for an important industry and protect jobs for Albertans,” she said in a release.

 

Then on February 8, 2021 it was reported that the Alberta Government was rescinding their decision to remove the 1976 coal policy.

 

The shift in strategy comes after growing pressure from municipal councils, First Nations, environmentalists, country music stars and everyday Albertans upset by the coal-policy changes the government initially announced nine months ago.

 

“Albertans have spoken loud and clear and we have heard them,” Savage said in a media release.

 

“Not only we will reinstate the full 1976 coal policy, we will implement further protections and consult with Albertans on a new, modern coal policy. Alberta’s government is absolutely committed to protecting the majestic Eastern Slopes and the surrounding natural environment.”

 

Source : https://www.thestar.com/news/canada