Response to Pembina Institute’s report: “Getting on Track”

Al Reid, Director of The Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero Alliance, issued the following statement in response to the Pembina Institute’s report “Getting on Track”:

“The Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero Alliance has reviewed the Pembina Institute’s recent report ‘Getting on Track’ about the need to reduce emissions in Canada’s oil sands. The oil sands represent about 10 per cent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions and we will play a key role in helping the country meet its climate goals.

“We appreciate the Pembina Institute’s acknowledgment that meeting our plan to achieve net zero emissions from production by 2050 would represent a significant contribution to Canada’s climate strategy. It also notes that well-designed targeted government support is needed to develop emissions-reduction technologies of the future.

“The Pembina Institute also highlighted the challenges related to reducing emissions and we agree it won’t be easy. That’s why the Pathways Alliance has embarked on unprecedented collaboration among Canada’s oil sands producers to address climate change. It’s one of the greatest challenges of our time and there is no single path to net zero for the oil sands.

“To help Canada meet its climate goals, we have a three-phase plan with short-term steps, to ensure immediate progress to reduce carbon emissions.

“Although we don’t agree with all aspects of the report, we look forward to meeting with the Pembina Institute to learn more about it and to share the progress we’re making. That includes working to advance our foundational project, a world-leading carbon capture network in Alberta that will help us to deliver on our Phase 1 goal to significantly reduce emissions by 2030.”