By Canadian Press

Alberta reinstates 1976 Coal Policy following backlash

Feb 8, 2021 | 11:20 AM

A policy that protected the eastern slopes of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains from coal mining since 1976 is being reinstated.

Energy Minister Sonya Savage says public outcry over the government revoking the policy last spring to allow for open-pit coal mines has caused her to change her mind.

The United Conservative government quietly rescinded the policy last May without public consultation.

Savage says all land protections under the previous policy are being restored, including a ban on surface mining on some of the most sensitive landscapes.

The move comes after powerful public protest that united small-town mayors, ranchers, environmentalists and city dwellers.

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Savage says any future exploration in the area won’t be allowed until widespread public consultations are held.

Savage’s announcement does not offer any information on the hundreds of thousands of hectares of land already leased for exploration.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 8, 2021.

The Canadian Press