Map showing coal mining projects and source waters in Alberta.

Coal remains a risk to Albertans unless Coal Policy reflects conservation values

Government of Alberta must develop a Coal Policy that protects Albertans into the future

Wait a second - I thought we already fixed the whole coal mining issue?

Not quite… But your actions and letters to the government have already led to two really big wins!

First, you helped to reverse the cancellation of the coal policy, next you helped us in the fight to reject Grassy Mountain. These are both great things to celebrate - but coal mining forges ahead in Alberta, and a new Coal Policy is in the works.

We have yet to see any commitments from the Government of Alberta to protect the Eastern Slopes against all future coal mining and exploration (as it stands now, mines could still go forward). This letter below is a direct ask to your MLA to push for greater protections in the Rocky Mountains and create a policy to keep the region safe from coal mining.

This is especially important RIGHT NOW as the Government of Alberta is currently working towards the development of a new Coal Policy. You have the unique opportunity to influence this policy. By sending the letter below - you can push for this policy to prioritize conservation, community values, and your family’s health and future.

Why should I care about the Eastern Slopes?

Impacts of coal development and exploration:

Coal mining puts our water source at risk by leaching contaminants such as Selenium into streams and rivers
Exploration and development of coal mines destroys habitat for wildlife including species at risk like caribou, grizzly bears, and native trout.
Coal mining uses large quantities of water reducing the amount available for fish, wildlife, and agriculture
Hiking, camping, and other recreation/tourism is less enjoyable near heavy industrial activity such as open pit mines.

A New Coal Policy:

Prior to its cancellation in May 2020, the Alberta’s Coal Development Policy, created in 1976, defined where coal could and could not be mined in the Rocky Mountains. In February 2021, thanks to public pushback, the Government of Alberta reinstated the Coal Policy and announced their intention to write a new policy directing coal development. The old Coal Policy left many gaps in the protection of our sensitive areas and the cancellation of this policy opened many more. The Coal Policy Committee will present its recommendations to the government this fall. We all have a unique opportunity to engage our elected representatives and have an impact on policy that will protect the landscape we love.