Programs

Community and Socio-Economic Programs

Social responsibility and community involvement are key issues for the oil and gas industry which need to be proactively and systematically addressed. Long-term solutions are being developed, especially in Alberta's oil sands where development activity and community impacts are extensive. At the same time, there are numerous socio-economic benefits for the communities and regions associated with oil and gas development including: employment, economic benefits, economic stability, government revenue, and investment in research and development.

In addition to the 75 000 direct, indirect and induced jobs already created by oil sands development in 2010, an estimated 905 000 new jobs will be created across Canada by 2035.

In the international arena, Canadian companies have completed impact assessments for overseas projects. Substantial expenditures are made to improve the standard of living of local residents, including funding of electrical energy services, dependable water supplies, improved housing and other community services.

Community Economics at Work

Canadian oil and gas companies continue to be world leaders in community and socio-economic initiatives such as:

• Increasing the level of Aboriginal participation in oil and gas projects by providing employment and training, and creating opportunities in business and economic development;
• Encouraging volunteerism by providing grants to non-profit organizations;
• Investments in major universities and colleges which focus on the development of talent, expertise and innovation in the oil and gas industry;
• Preservation and support of Canadian arts and culture through funding for performing arts, theatre, music and dance;
• Environmental initiatives to further knowledge and improve projects;
• Archaeological surveys prior to construction.