Lesson19 assignment.1
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Nov 24, 2024
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How might a local environmental activist assess/approach sustainability stewardship of oil
and gas exploration in indigenous lands in Canada?
Despite residing in countries and territories rich in natural resources, indigenous peoples
worldwide continue to be among the most vulnerable populations on the planet as a result of
centuries-long marginalization and discrimination. Governments and the private sector see many
of the indigenous peoples' unexploited traditional lands as chances for economic expansion and
exclusive profits. The indigenous peoples' unique bond with their lands, essential to their
spiritual, religious, cultural, and physical survival, frequently conflicts with these
interests(Westman & Joly,2019). There has been a long conflict between indigenous peoples and
industrial corporations. These relationships have frequently exploited these peoples' fundamental
freedoms and human rights, including their rights to lands, territories, and resources.
The extraction of minerals, oil, and gas is one example of an extractive industry that has proven
particularly troublesome and continues to affect indigenous peoples disproportionately
(Bianchi,2020). Mega-projects, including dam construction, monoculture plantations, mining,
and the production of oil, gas, and lumber, present particularly severe threats to indigenous
rights. Such projects negatively affect the environment, traditional territories, knowledge, and
livelihoods. They also frequently cause conflict and forced displacement, increasing
marginalization, poverty, and a decline in the health of indigenous peoples.
Oil and gas exploitation has far-reaching implications for biodiversity in Canada. The first is
through Habitat loss and fragmentation. Oil and gas exploration and development require the
construction of roads, pipelines, and other infrastructure, which can fragment and destroy
important habitats for various species. This can lead to reduced populations and increased
vulnerability to extinction. For example, seismic surveys, which map potential oil and gas
reserves, can create clearings through forests and other habitats, disrupting natural corridors and
making it difficult for animals to move between feeding and breeding grounds.
Secondly, Pollution. Oil and gas exploration and development can release various environmental
pollutants, including chemicals, heavy metals, and sediment. These pollutants can harm plants
and animals and can also contaminate water sources. For example, oil spills can devastate marine
ecosystems, killing fish, birds, and other wildlife(Baker & Westman, 2018). Third is Noise
pollution. The noise from drilling, seismic surveys, and other oil and gas activities can disturb
wildlife and disrupt their natural behaviours. For example, noise can cause stress in animals,
making them more vulnerable to predation and disease. It can also interfere with mating and
breeding cycles, reducing reproductive success. Fourth is Increased human activity: Oil and gas
exploration and development can attract other human activities, such as hunting, fishing, and off-
road recreation, which can further stress wildlife populations and damage their habitat. Sixth is
Climate change. Oil and gas are fossil fuels, and their combustion releases greenhouse gases,
contributing to climate change. Climate change is a major threat to biodiversity, and its effects
are already being felt in Canada, with more extreme weather events, changes in plant and animal
ranges, and melting sea ice.
Several policy measures must be put in place to guarantee the sustainability and preservation of
the ecosystem on indigenous land. The first step is to get the free, prior, and informed permission
of the indigenous populations impacted by the exploitation of lands and resources. Indigenous
peoples should also participate equally in negotiations over benefit sharing, with legal
representation provided as needed. Respecting indigenous rights throughout the entire resource
exploitation process.
When hiring Native Americans, businesses should make sure that international labour standards
are followed and that Native Americans are not subjected to discrimination because of their
Native American heritage. Native American women, in particular, should receive special
consideration. Thirdly, international financial institutions are financing initiatives that affect
indigenous peoples based on a rights-based approach that considers accountability,
empowerment, participation, equality, and equity(Zentner et al.,2019)—lastly, honouring the
indigenous cultures, customs, and traditions of the area while incorporating their traditional
knowledge and experience into sustainable development and environmental preservation.
References
Westman, C. N., & Joly, T. L. (2019). Oil sands extraction in Alberta, Canada: A review of
impacts and processes concerning Indigenous peoples. Human Ecology, 47, 233-243.
Bianchi, E.(2020). Indigenous Peoples and Oil and Gas Development.
Baker, J. M., & Westman, C. N. (2018). Extracting knowledge: Social science, environmental
impact assessment, and Indigenous consultation in the oil sands of Alberta, Canada. The
Extractive Industries and Society, 5(1), 144-153.
Zentner, E., Kecinski, M., Letourneau, A., & Davidson, D. (2019). Ignoring Indigenous peoples
—climate change, oil development, and Indigenous rights clash in the Arctic National
Wildlife Refuge. Climatic Change, 155(4), 533-544.
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