In The News

Journalists, editors and producers turn to Alberta Beyond Fossil Fuels for evidence on energy transition, pollution and the rights of the communities that live with the consequences. Below is a selection of coverage of our research, legal interventions and campaigns.

Alberta Beyond Fossil Fuels pushes for tighter rules on oil sands tailings ponds

Edmonton weekly · 10 March 2022

The group released a report showing that tailings pond leakage could contaminate groundwater for generations. It calls on regulators to enforce strict containment measures and increase industry accountability.

Environmental coalition calls for just transition fund for Alberta oil workers

Prairie public radio · 23 June 2022

Alberta Beyond Fossil Fuels joined a coalition urging the provincial government to establish a $2-billion fund to retrain workers as the energy shift accelerates. The plan includes income support and early retirement options.

New study links neonicotinoid pesticides to declining bee populations in Alberta

National broadcaster · 5 September 2022

Research commissioned by the group found that neonicotinoid residues in honey samples are up 40% since 2017. The group demands a provincial ban on these pesticides to protect pollinators and agriculture.

Alberta Beyond Fossil Fuels intervenes in Imperial Oil Kearl tailings spill case

Environmental trade press · 17 November 2022

The organization filed legal arguments to ensure that the company faces full penalties for the 2023 tailings leak. They argue that current fines are too low to deter future spills.

Group releases Alberta water security report warns of over-extraction in dry years

Regional daily · 8 February 2023

The report projects that water demand from oil and gas could exceed supply in drought years by 2030. It urges mandatory water recycling and restrictions on new water licences for fracking.

Campaign launched to ban single-use plastics in Edmonton city facilities

Edmonton weekly · 14 April 2023

Alberta Beyond Fossil Fuels is partnering with local businesses to eliminate plastic cups, straws, and bags. The group says municipal leadership is needed to combat plastic pollution.

Alberta needs stronger climate target, says environmental NGO in submission

Prairie public radio · 29 August 2023

In a briefing to the provincial government, the group argues that Alberta’s 2050 net-zero goal should be backed by an interim 2035 target of 50% emissions reduction. Current policy lacks enforcement.

Watchdog report finds federal impact assessment failing to protect water in Alberta

National broadcaster · 11 January 2024

The organization’s analysis shows that 70% of major projects approved since 2019 had inadequate water protection plans. It calls for a moratorium on new pipelines until rules are updated.

Indigenous communities join Alberta Beyond Fossil Fuels to challenge coal mine expansion in Rockies

Environmental trade press · 5 July 2024

The coalition filed a judicial review against the Grassy Mountain coal project, citing threats to headwaters and cultural sites. The group highlights the need for Free, Prior and Informed Consent.