Canadian PM Plans To Only Export Oil To Countries With Lower Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards

September 29, 2008 11:32 a.m. EST

Calgary, Alberta (AHN) - Election front runner and incumbent Prime Minister Stephen Harper of the Conservative Party has vowed that Canada will lead in the global effort to save the environment by stopping future oil exports to countries that don't match the carbon emission standards of Canada.

Oil sands or bitumen, which is mostly produced in Alberta, is the thick, heavy oil that is converted into crude oil. This is mostly exported to the United States with a small portion to Asia.

Harper said this move could affect future exports to Asia, where countries such as China have been lagging in terms of carbon emissions standards for heavy industries.

Conservative ministers John Baird for environment and Jim Prentice for industry said the proposed ban might not apply to exports to the U.S. as the two presidential candidates promised tougher emissions standards.

Harper's recent campaign statement raised eyebrows as only a minimal amount of Alberta oil sands is shipped to Asia. The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers cautioned that while it is campaign period, Conservatives should provide details on the proposal and not just issue broad statements.

One company that was surprised with Harper's newest green campaign is gas line firm Enbridge Inc., which plans to install a multi-billion dollar pipeline that would deliver oil from Edmonton, Alberta to Kitimat, British Columbia.

From the B.C. coast, oil from the pipes will be transferred to Asia-bound tankers. Dubbed as the Northern Gateway project, the oil pipeline and terminal are expected to be completed by 2015.