Chapter 13: Impacts on the Environment  Often when natural resources are being developed we must take in to consideration the environmental impact or cost it will have.  There are many perspective to consider when environment development. Often there is conflict- development v.s. economic prosperity.  Often there is economic pressure to meet the needs of a global market.

Alberta: Oil v.s. Environment  Due to advancements in transportation global trading has increased.  Fossil Fuel (oil and natural gas) are in high demand because transportation requires fossil fuels.  The supply for fossil fuels is limited, it cannot be “replanted”.  We must examine if these resources can be developed without long term effects.

Resource Development in less developed Countries  The deforestation effects our environment. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. As we consume more fossil fuels more carbon dioxide is released into the air and less oxygen.  The destruction of forests caused the planet to heat up.  Who has the responsibility of combating global warming? Developed countries who have money to do so? Or less developed countries who are desperate to advance by western standards?

Urbanization  The growth of people moving from rural areas to urban is increasing.  This results in urban sprawl which results in the loss of land for natural resources.  Fewer natural resources are available in urban areas.

Mackenzie Pipeline  In 1977 oil and natural gas was discovered in the far north and a pipeline was proposed to go from Mackenzie Delta along the Mackenzie River.  Chief justice Thomas Burger, who was investigating the impact of the pipeline, recommended a 10 year hold on the project to settle land claims before such a project took place.  Mr. Burger realized people cared about the land and a home to wildlife.

 In 2002 the pipeline proposal was reintroduced.  It was passed because many land claims had been settled.  Gas companies negotiated a resource development agreement with the Aboriginals which allowed them 1/3 of the ownership in the pipeline.  This agreement also included job creation for the local people and social programs.  Has money influenced this decision???

OPEC:Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries  Formed in 1960 to regulate oil production and markets.  Often governments negotiate development agreement with other countries.  In 2007 there are 11 member countries.  Not all oil producing countries are members of OPEC