Pembina Institute applauds funding for orphan well clean-up, methane emissions reductions

Pembina Institute reacts to economic aid announcement for oil and gas sector

OTTAWA — Josha MacNab, national policy director at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to Friday’s announcement of stimulus funding for the oil and gas sector:

“We applaud the federal and provincial governments for coming together to address this global crisis in a way that will put Canada on a more solid footing for a healthier, more resilient future. We’re encouraged to see priority given to job creation while staying the course on environmental and climate action.

“It’s essential that as we address one global crisis, we don’t exacerbate another. While these investments seem to be pointing us in the right direction, we’re looking at the details to ensure the outcomes will put oil and gas workers back to work while advancing our efforts to reduce climate pollution. Funding to clean up orphan and inactive wells creates employment when it’s needed most. We’re looking forward to reading the details on how policy gaps that led to this critical and persistent problem will be addressed as part of this investment. We’re hopeful that the Emissions Reduction Fund will create work for Canadians while driving down emissions of methane, one of the most potent greenhouse gases.

“This is a win for Canadian workers, Canada’s economy and our shared environment and climate.”

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Contact

Michelle Bartleman(English / français) 
Communications Lead – Alberta, Pembina Institute
587-588-5744

Background

Recommendations: Green Stimulus: Principles and recommendations for a 2020 economic stimulus package

Op-ed: How to rebuild for a healthier economic future

About the Pembina Institute

The Pembina Institute is a non-profit think-tank that advocates for strong, effective policies to support Canada’s clean energy transition. We have offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa and Toronto. Learn more: www.pembina.org