Review of Northern Gateway Project Controversies

Two decades ago, a memorandum of understanding was signed to develop the Northern Gateway Pipeline, intended to transport Alberta’s oilsands crude to British Columbia’s coast for export to China. Despite initial enthusiasm from Enbridge and PetroChina, the project faced significant delays and opposition, leading to PetroChina’s withdrawal in 2007. Over the following decade, the proposal sparked nationwide debates, protests, and legal challenges, culminating in a shift in public opinion against the project. This historical context becomes relevant again as a new memorandum is signed between Ottawa and Alberta for a different pipeline vision through B.C.