Vast Country: The Importance of Regionality in Perceptions Around Resource Development

Canada is the world’s second-largest country by landmass.

In the vast expanses of Canada, regional differences shape not only landscapes but also perceptions, particularly when it comes to resource development. Public opinion on resource development differs from province to province, and, even within provinces, from region to region.

For example, Canadians residing in regions where the oil and gas industry is not a primary source of employment or a significant contributor to community development and prosperity may fail to appreciate the sector’s significance.

Specifically, in Western provinces, the oil and gas industry is deeply ingrained in the provincial identity and the lives of Canadians.

Generations of Canadians in the West have relied on the sector for employment, prosperity, and economic stability.

For many Albertans, resource development represents not just an industry but a way of life. They see oil and gas as vital for national economic growth, job creation, and even Canadian sovereignty. The benefits of a robust energy sector are tangible and relevant, from well-paying jobs to the government revenue that funds public services and infrastructure.

This benefits exist because Alberta is a massive oil and natural gas producer.

The same applies to many regions in British Columbia, where many municipalities rely on oil and gas for their revenue and have citizens who actively work in the sector. This includes Prince George, Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Fort Nelson, and Chetwynd.

 In Newfoundland and Labrador, offshore oil and gas development is an important source of revenue for the province and many communities as well, thereby influencing the province’s citizens’ perception of resource development.

These examples illustrate the importance of regionality when it comes to the distribution of  positive views on Canada’s energy sector.

Conversely, in Quebec, the narrative surrounding responsible resource development often  focuses more exclusively on environmental considerations. Quebecers are more likely to prioritize renewable energy sources over traditional extractive industries.

The province’s massive hydroelectric power infrastructure and great natural potential for hydroelectric power plays a significant role in shaping attitudes towards alternative energy solutions and fostering a sense of pride in locally sourced, renewable energy.

These different perceptions apply to all Canadian provinces, territories, and regions, each influenced by their distinct geographic characteristics and available energy sources.

Coastal regions may prioritize fisheries and marine conservation, while forestry-dependent communities value sustainable logging practices. Each region has its own unique relationship with the land and its resources, shaped by geography, history, and socio-economic factors.

Another important aspect that is often forgotten is energy security. While many Canadians almost never have to worry about whether or not they’ll have access to energy, those who live in smaller, more remote communities may face this issue more often, and thus value traditional, reliable energy sources more.

It’s not merely a matter of differing opinions but a reflection of deeply rooted historical, cultural, and economic factors. Acknowledging and respecting these differences is essential for fostering constructive dialogue and finding common ground.

So, what’s the solution?

Dialogue.

It is important to understand that in most cases, those who oppose the development of various resources do not hold this belief due to malice, but rather a lack of understanding of the importance of said resource for communities, the country, and are also missing key facts about how that resource is produced.

By engaging in respectful and fact-based dialogue, we can bridge the regionality gap and strive to create an environment in Canada that respects the various regional viewpoints.