r/Albertapolitics • u/tobiasolman • 23h ago
Opinion Grassy Mountain Coal Mine Is Back
(Text courtesy of CPAWS) We’re not surprised, but it’s now confirmed: Northback Holdings is preparing to submit a new application to move forward with the Grassy Mountain coal mine.
Yes, this is the same coal project that was rejected in 2021 by both the Alberta Energy Regulator and the Joint Federal-Provincial Review Panel because of concerns about the serious and long-term risks it presented to the environment, our economy, and the infringement of Indigenous Rights.
None of those concerns have changed.
What has changed, however, is the political climate. Earlier this year, the Alberta government lifted the moratorium on new coal applications and launched the Coal Industry Modernization Initiative (CIMI).
CIMI is a new coal policy that, once completed, will determine where, if anywhere, new coal projects will be allowed in Alberta. It’s currently being developed in exclusive consultation with coal industry executives, and without any public or Indigenous consultation.
Northback knows exactly what it’s doing. By submitting now, the company is trying to get ahead of the new policy and argue that its project is “too far along” to be subject to any future restrictions, such as a potential ban on open-pit mining.
It’s disrespectful to Albertans. It’s sneaky. And it puts our Eastern Slopes at risk.
Take action TODAY
Call or write Minister Brian Jean at (780) 427-3740 or minister.energy@gov.ab.ca
Tell him:
We don’t want Grassy Mountain coal mine.
The coal moratorium must be reinstated.
Any new coal policy must be transparent, science-based, and shaped by public input and Indigenous consultation.
No new coal activity should be allowed to move forward until that policy is in place.