The provincial government needs to take a closer look at natural gas industry pollution levels and the impact the sector is having on B.C.’s fresh water resources, according to two new reports released Wednesday by the Pembina Institute.
The institute is calling on the government to keep a “closer eye” on its burgeoning shale gas industry.
Pembina director of B.C. energy solutions Matt Horne said the anticipated development of natural gas reserves in B.C. would make it impossible for the province to achieve its targeted climate change goals.
In fact, the Pembina study found that the sector’s greenhouse gas pollution would increase 15% above 2007 levels, despite the fact that the legislated target is to lower emissions 33% 2007 levels.
“It’s not rocket science,” said Horne.
“To close this gap, the province needs to update its climate change plan and make sure the natural gas sector is part of an overall strategy that will meet the province’s obligations.”
Horne said simple solutions such as using more efficient compressors and tightening up pipeline leaks could significantly reduce emissions.
But the Pembina Institute also voiced concern about the industry’s ongoing use of fresh water resources.
A second study found the province had not adequately monitored or mitigated the increased demand for water, which is a key ingredient in hydraulic fracturing techniques.
“There’s a clear need for proactive regional planning to ensure wise decisions are being made about how much water can be used, where it can be taken from and how it should be treated and disposed of,” said Horne.
He added that the province is currently working on a Water Act modernization proposal, which so far, includes some changes that would address a number of the institute’s concerns.
Joel McKay
Twitter:jmckaybiv