The dramatic drop in oil prices is having an impact around the world and Alberta’s oil sands is no exception.
Mike Ekelund, the Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategic Initiatives for Alberta Energy says because “large projects are a marathon and not a sprint, unless they are still in the planning stages they are not easily shelved”, adding, “the industry is looking ahead 30-50 years.
Ekelund was part of a panel at the World Heavy Oil Congress taking place in Edmonton, Alberta.
He thinks this is a good time to “work on the industry and get things right”. Ekelund was referring to things like reducing flaring and cleaning up tailings ponds.
The Deputy Minister also echoed comments made by others at the conference and that is “we have to have acceptance of all groups with a stake in energy products and that includes companies, government, First Nations and the community.” Ekeleund is also issuing a challenge to those groups to be more responsible when it comes to producing, transporting and consuming oil.
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