Alberta is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes—its towering mountains, sweeping plains, pristine rivers, and diverse ecosystems are integral to the health and well-being of its people and environment. The health of Alberta's communities, environment, and economy is deeply interconnected with the health of our planet. The choices we make today have profound consequences for planetary health, which encompasses the well-being of humans, ecosystems, and the systems that sustain life on Earth.
Human activities, including coal mining and burning, pose significant threats to Alberta’s natural beauty, public health, and climate. At the same time, greenhouse gas emissions and pollution from electricity generation are among the leading contributors to environmental degradation and climate change, necessitating urgent action.
Prohibiting All New and Expanded Coal Mining Activities in Alberta
Despite the evidence from science, expert opinions, and the will of Albertans, the Alberta government – and under its direction, the Alberta Energy Regulator – continues to consider coal mining and exploration at Grassy Mountain and has approved significant expansions of the Vista thermal coal mine near Hinton. Coal mining and burning are among the most harmful human activities. Mining releases toxic pollutants like selenium, mercury, and heavy metals into our air, soil, and water, while coal burning emits greenhouse gases and harmful particulate matter. These activities endanger public health, accelerate climate change, and damage Alberta’s iconic landscapes and waterways and degrade ecosystems. The Alberta government has not provided any valid justification for overriding science, expert recommendations, or public opinion. Approving or even considering new coal exploration and mining in the pristine and iconic foothills of Alberta suggests the province remains open to further coal development.
Update: The Alberta government has recently removed the 2022 moratorium on coal mining, re-activating coal mining projects in large areas of the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains. This action defies the overwhelming majority of Albertans who have said NO to coal mining in the Rockies, and NO to putting our land, water, wildlife, and communities at risk.
It’s time to demand action.
Send a letter to the Premier of Alberta, Ministers, and your Member of Legislative Assembly demanding they act now to implement a complete ban on new coal mines and expansions, ensuring Alberta’s landscapes, waterways, and public and environmental health are protected for current and future generations.
Are you a professional individual or organization?
Tell your government that you stand with individual Albertans, Alberta organizations, and the Alberta Health Professionals for the Environment in our united call.
Urgently and Rapidly Increasing Alberta’s Green Electric Capacity
To meet the challenges of climate change and a growing population, Alberta must transition rapidly to green energy. Renewable energy technologies now offer lower costs, greater efficiency, and advanced storage capabilities. Expanding Alberta’s green energy capacity is crucial to reducing reliance on fossil fuels, improving public health, and addressing increasing energy demands. This policy calls on the Alberta government to provide strong economic incentives for individuals, businesses, and research institutions to adopt, develop, and implement renewable energy solutions. By committing to a greener grid, Alberta can lead the way toward a sustainable, resilient future.
It’s time to demand action.
Send a letter to the Premier of Alberta, Ministers, and your Member of Legislative Assembly demanding they act now to urgently and rapidly increase Alberta's green electric capacity.
Are you a professional individual or organization?
Tell your government that you stand with individual Albertans, Alberta organizations, and the Alberta Health Professionals for the Environment in our united call.
View our growing list of signatories in the Call to Action Urgently and Rapidly Increasing Alberta’s Green Electric Capacity.
Alberta Health Professionals for the Environment is a coalition of health professionals and organizations dedicated to advancing environmental health awareness and advocacy. We aim to protect public health and the environment by promoting science-based, sustainable policies. These statements reflect our commitment to addressing the urgent challenges of planetary health, environmental degradation, and human and animal well-being, and reflect a growing consensus among Albertans for bold, science-based solutions to address these challenges.