Good for the Economy? An Ecological Economics Approach to Analyzing Alberta’s Bitumen Industry

摘要: Abstract Competing claims about the economic, social and environmental impacts of bitumen projects make Alberta's oilsands industry highly contentious. This paper uses a case study major project, Shell Canada's Jackpine mine expansion, to examine evidence considered by government decision-makers in project approval process. The was determined be “in public interest” based primarily on its economic benefits, despite significant adverse impacts. evaluates that presented support this decision, using three criteria drawn from ecological economics: efficient allocation, just distribution, sustainable macroeconomic scale. It finds is, fact, insufficient justify any criteria. Furthermore, other studies cast doubt likelihood would satisfy these if further analysis were conducted. concludes recommending several measures could help improve decision-making future.