Pathways Plus

Description

The Pathways Plus transformative strategy combines a series of emissions reductions projects put forward by the Oil Sands Alliance. The Oil Sands Alliance represents some of Canada’s largest oil producers, with a shared commitment to work towards a west coast oil pipeline and related sector growth, and additional strategic ambitions. The strategy aims to reduce emissions from heavy oil production, with the objective of achieving best-in-class emissions intensity for Canadian heavy oil by 2050 (based on global averages), while also unlocking the growth potential of the sector.

Pathways Plus aims to reduce upstream emissions from the conventional energy sector while catalyzing private investment in new energy infrastructure. In doing so, this strategy seeks to strengthen Canada’s energy sector, support economic growth and accelerate emissions reductions.

The Pathways Project

One part of the Pathways Plus transformative strategy is the Pathways Project, which will reduce the emissions intensity of Canada’s oil sands, support the transition to lower-carbon oil, expand Canada’s ability to deliver energy to global markets, and strengthen economic independence by sustaining and creating well-paying jobs. The MPO is working together with the Government of Alberta and the Oil Sands Alliance to advance this project as part of its work on the overarching strategy.  

The project presents an opportunity to support increased oil and gas production in Alberta to advance Canada’s export and national security objectives, while progressing toward carbon neutrality— including through achieving best-in-class emissions intensity for Canadian heavy oil production by 2050.

According to the Oil Sands Alliance the Pathways Project will lead to benefits for Canadians:

• Economic contribution: Represents up to $16.5B in GDP
• Labour income: Represents up to $12.2B in labour income
• Job creation: Will create between 18,500 and 43,000 jobs annually.