What impact does mining the oil sands have on the environment?
The upstream oil and natural gas industry plays an essential role in the lives of Canadians. Oil and natural gas products fuel our cars, heat our homes and power our factories. They also provide the raw materials for petrochemicals, plastics and other products we use every day. At the same time, the industry s exploration and production activities may have impacts on air, land and water. To offset these impacts, the industry invests in programs and technologies that help to reduce its environmental footprint. Statistics Canada reports that the upstream oil and gas industry spent about $1.1 billion on environmental protection in 2002. Much of this amount was spent on environmental assessment and planning to meet regulations. For more information, visit http://www.centreforenergy.com/silos/ong/ongEnviro…
