Dr. David Swann Responds to the Schindler Report
August 31 2010
The peer-reviewed research of David Schindler’s team at the National Academy of Science on environmental pollution from oil sands development reveals that the Stelmach administration has not done nearly enough to protect Alberta’s watersheds or the international reputation of our oil and gas sector. Contrary to his government’s prior claims, toxic contamination of the Athabasca River can’t be entirely blamed on nature; oil sands development, including toxic tailings ponds, is almost certainly responsible. Slick communications strategies aren’t enough – the Premier must take direct action now.
Protecting human health and our lakes, rivers and wildlife requires independent, more accurate monitoring and enforcement. That means equipment and qualified specialists on the ground, with the tools, funding and enforcement powers necessary to do the job. Disincentives for polluters must have real teeth to encourage responsible development and restore our international reputation. This government’s decision to cut our environment department by $17.5 million this year speaks volumes about its priorities and its irrational fixation on public relations at the expense of real solutions.
Albertans want to be proud of our oil sands development. We’re leading the way in providing energy to the world; now we need to take the next step, by leading the way in real environmental protection. Human health, the economy and the environment are inextricably linked, and would be the top priorities of a David Swann government.
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