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Friends of Science Society Challenges 'No Pathways, No Pipeline' Policy

The Friends of Science Society has recently voiced its concerns regarding Prime Minister Mark Carney's declared policy of "No Pathways, no pipeline." This statement, appearing in CTV News on May 25, 2026, is especially perplexing to the Society in light of the significant energy shortfalls currently challenging global supply systems.

Context of the Policy

This policy emerges during a critical time, as Canada and Alberta forge ahead with the Implementation Agreement aimed at energy development. In an open letter addressed to Premier Danielle Smith, the Friends of Science Society outlined their critiques of this Agreement, expressing alarm that the prioritized focus on carbon reduction could impede the nation’s energy production capabilities.

Understanding 'Pathways'

At the heart of Carney's initiative lies the concept of "Pathways," a planned Carpone Capture and Storage (CCS) project initiated by the Oil Sands Alliance. This ambitious project aims to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from 20 major oil production sites, transporting it over 400 km to a storage hub near Cold Lake. The cost of the project is staggering, estimated to exceed $20 billion—largely dependent on public funding and tax credits. Given the current energy shortfalls, former proponents of this project, including Martha Hall Findlay, have re-evaluated its viability.

Emissions vs. Global Context

According to the Society's analysis, while the Pathways Project is touted to sequester approximately 11 million tonnes of CO2 annually, Canada's total emissions were 685 million tonnes in 2024. Thus, the initiative's impact would be a mere 2.3% reduction in national emissions—a figure minuscule in the grand scheme of global pollution levels. The Society's critique highlights that any reductions made by Canada could easily be overshadowed by emissions from China, the world's leading polluter, with whom Canada has recently solidified a strategic partnership.

Market Competitiveness Concerns

In a segment discussed on CTV, Environment Minister Julie Drabusin celebrated the increasing industrial carbon tax—set to rise to six times its current level—part of an overall strategy ensconced in the existing agreement. Friends of Science Society strongly argues that this move will displace Canadian products in favor of those from the USA, whose absence of such taxes could threaten Canadian competitiveness in the market.

Questioning Climate Justifications

The Society also poses a fundamental inquiry regarding the rationale behind the carbon removal policies in place. The catastrophic climate scenarios that have shaped policy directions over the past decade are being scrutinized, especially since prominent studies projecting dire consequences have since been retracted or deemed implausible. In light of this, the Society calls for a reassessment of the government’s climate rationale — questioning whether exaggerated narratives are being used to endorse restrictive policies.

Energy Shortage and Economic Implications

With energy supplies globally dwindling, particularly due to geopolitical conflicts affecting production facilities, Friends of Science Society argues that Canada must optimize its energy production capabilities, rather than be hindered by regulations stemming from policies that lack logical support. They view the promotion of “decarbonized” oil not as a constructive measure, but as a misleading venture that distracts from the pressing need for energy production.

Conclusion

In essence, the Friends of Science Society advocates for a balanced discussion on energy policies that does not compromise Canada’s capacity to respond effectively to both energy demands and economic sustainability. As they engage with policymakers, their ongoing message stresses the need for a scientific foundation in crafting energy regulations, one that acknowledges the realities of both climate science and market dynamics. This debate continues as stakeholders assess the implications for Canadian energy independence and global competitiveness.