More Than Technology Required
CAPP President Tells EATS

By Marissa Lee

We all have a role to play in sustaining world energy demands, according to David Manning, president of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP), especially in a time when the energy industry is redefining itself."The state of industry is in good shape," Mr. Manning said to a crowd of 170 at the Edmonton Association of Technical Societies (EATS) annual dinner meeting on Nov. 18. "Revenue from oil and gas production is $31 billion; capital investments are $19 billion; the value of merger and acquisitions is $15 billion; oil and gas tradebalance is $13 billion; and our exports are strong and set to grow further." Mr. Manning explained that public opinion is one demand facing the energy industry today. There is strong environmental awareness growing from the public's concerns over industry practices and their effect on climate change. According to recent CAPP surveys, it shows the majority of Canadians support the Kyoto Accord on Greenhouse Gas Emissions that set oil and gas targets in reducing CO2 emissions.

Yet, people view climate change as an industry problem, not a personal one. As individuals, we are also contributing to climate change, for example, by driving cars every day. But we expect technology to solve it. Engineers, geologists and geophysicists, through science and technology, have kept energy producers in the game, but the public must respond and become part of the solution. Research indicates people's concerns for the environment increases in a healthy economy. "That's why," Mr. Manning said, "the best way to keep the public focused on the environment is to encourage people in business so they have the money and security to drive research and development."

Science and technology alone can not solve environmental problems. Therefore, it becomes a challenge for the energy industry to educate the public and government - everyone is responsible when it comes to the environment.

The Edmonton Association of Technical Societies was formed in 1997 to foster greater co-operation and interaction between Edmonton-area technical societies.