The science behind a European Union directive that slams Canada’s oil sands is being question by the federal government.
The directive, which would favor low-carbon fuels, would punish Canadian bitumen, on grounds the oil sands crude is the most harmful to the Earth’s climate.
Ottawa wants an independent review of the findings and is looking for a firm to conduct a study on pollution from crude oil.
The Union rated the emissions intensity of bitumen 22% higher than conventional crude – which makes Albertan crude look less appealing to the European market.
The company that wins the survey contract, worth up to $200,000, will have to submit a final report by September 27th.
Ottawa has been fighting to get Europe to withdraw the directive.
Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver told the Canadian Press he’s arguing that Europe doesn’t look at the fact some crudes are heavier than others and are therefore more polluting.
But the Union categorizes oil sands crude with conventional crude.
August 9th, 2013
