Environmental Impact of Oil Sands

Canada's oil sands, a major energy project, are causing environmental concerns due to their significant greenhouse gas emissions and destruction of forests. The oil sands, primarily located in Alberta, are the third-largest crude oil reserve globally. The extraction process releases three times more greenhouse gases than conventional oil production. Environmentalists and the Canadian government debate the terminology, with 'tar sands' sounding more threatening. Health risks, such as contaminated water and increased cancer rates, are reported in nearby communities. Internationally, the EU considers banning oil sands imports due to pollution concerns.

What is the primary component of oil sands that needs to be processed before use?

• Water

• Sand

• Bitumen

• Clay

Which country has the third largest proven crude oil reserve in the world?

• Saudi Arabia

• Russia

• Canada

• Venezuela

What is the expected daily production of oil from Canada's oil sands by 2018?

• 3 million barrels

• 2.6 million barrels

• 1.9 million barrels

• 4 million barrels

How much more greenhouse gas is released from oil sands compared to conventional oil?

• Five times as much

• Four times as much

• Three times as much

• Twice as much

What is the byproduct of the process used to turn bitumen into usable fuel?

• Natural gas

• Tailings

• Crude oil

• Petrol

What environmental issue is associated with tailing ponds?

• Deforestation

• Air pollution

• Water contamination

• Soil erosion

What was the consequence of the tailing pond breach in October 2013?

• Oil spill

• Forest fires

• Air pollution

• Waterway contamination

Which organization threatened a trade war over the oil sands project?

• United Nations

• European Union

• World Trade Organization

• NATO

What is the potential environmental impact if oil sands development continues at current rates?

• Toxic reservoir formation

• Increased air pollution

• Deforestation

• Soil erosion

What is the Canadian government's stance on the EU's proposal regarding oil sands?

• Neutral

• Supportive

• Indifferent

• Opposed