In a big week for the oil industry, Suncor revealed a new net-zero emissions plan, global oil producers with major Alberta operations lost battles over climate change, the Canadian association representing drilling contractors dropped the word "oilwell drilling" from its name and a former top Edmonton economic development leader started a new branding role with the Alberta government.
- Suncor promised to cut its absolute emissions by 10 megatons per year by 2030, about 30% lower than 2019 emissions of 29 megatonnes. "We have set a new strategic objective to become a net-zero carbon emissions company by 2050 on emissions produced in running our facilities, including those we have a working interest in," CEO Mark Little said in the Financial Post.
- A Dutch court ordered Royal Dutch Shell to cut its carbon emissions by net 45% by 2030 compared to 2019 levels in a landmark case brought by climate activism groups, CBC News reported. The company's Alberta assets include the Scotford refinery east of Edmonton and the Albian oilsands mines near Fort McMurray.
- Exxon Mobil's shareholders voted to replace at least two of the company's 12 board members with directors who are seen as better suited to fight climate change, bolster Exxon's finances and guide it through a transition to cleaner energy, the Associated Press reported. In Alberta, the majority owner of Imperial Oil operates the Strathcona Refinery and holds a 25%-stake in Syncrude.
- The Calgary-based Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors has replaced the word "oilwell drilling" in its name with "energy" to attract new members, CBC Calgary reported.
- In Alberta government news, former Edmonton Economic Development Corporation CEO Brad Ferguson announced he was taking on the role of assistant deputy minister for the environmental, social, and governance secretariat. "This is an important undertaking for Alberta's brand & reputation and for the S/M/L-Term competitiveness of our economy," Ferguson tweeted.
Photo credit: Suncor