Tailings “ponds”–immense basins that hold the toxic waste from oil sands production–now store trillions of litres. That’s enough to cover the city of Vancouver 2.6 times over. 

The “ponds,” which are perched on the shores of the Athabasca River, leak millions of litres of toxic waste every day. To make matters worse, there’s a constant risk of catastrophic spills, like the 5.3 million litre breach at Imperial Oil’s Kearl facility in 2023.

Unfortunately, the Kearl disaster is not an isolated incident. Ongoing leaks and spills show that oil producers repeatedly fail to manage their waste, while the federal and Alberta governments stand by.
 
To date, there is no credible plan for cleaning up this huge mess! The federal government is even considering a proposal from industry to release the toxic waste into the Athabasca river–after minimal treatment. 

Downstream communities, Indigenous communities that are experiencing high rates of cancers and other severe health issues, can’t continue to pay the price for industries’ mismanaged waste.

For the lands, waters, wildlife and people nearby, every day that passes is another day of harmful exposure. Urge the federal and Alberta governments to act now, to safeguard Indigenous communities and the environment from toxic tailings waste.
 
That includes:

• Putting a stop to tailings growth until a safe cleanup method is found. 
• Holding industry accountable for safe management and clean-up costs.
• Reforming the Alberta Energy Regulator so that it protects the public interest.
• Creating a reclamation plan that’s approved by impacted Indigenous Nations.

The Athabasca River and downstream communities can’t wait any longer. Let the federal and Alberta governments know you want to see action that puts a stop to toxic tailings waste.

Your message will be sent to: Hon. Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and Hon. Rebecca Schulz, Alberta Minister of Environment and Protected Areas.