Oil and Gas Law – Lawyered podcast episode 95

The federal government’s announcement of its intention to cap emissions in the oil and gas sector falls short of targeting all emitters, says Corporate partner Vivek Warrier during episode 95 of the Lawyered podcast.

“It is fully recognized that the oil and gas industry is one of our largest emitters in Canada,” says Vivek. “But, at the end of the day, there are other significant sources of emissions. And it is interesting that the federal government has chosen to focus on this specific industry and not, for example, transportation, airlines, automobile. It is an interesting focus on the deliverers of energy, as opposed to the consumers of energy, which may not make a lot of sense.”

Vivek believes lawyers will play a key role in the reporting and verification of emissions in ensuring clients comply and meet, if not exceed, regulatory requirements. “Reducing emissions and enhancing sustainability of operations are at the top of mind for all of my clients,” he says. “And it is a sincere, authentic, strategic goal for all of them.”

Other topics discussed by Vivek during the podcast include

• implications for the federal Impact Assessment Act (ITA) following the Supreme Court of Canada’s 2023 ruling that the ITA was largely unconstitutional
• carbon contracts for difference
• considerations related to Indigenous co-ownership and joint ventures
• climate litigation