WEYBURN CLIMATE CHANGE RESEARCH PROJECT DRAWS INTERNATIONAL ATTENTION

A Saskatchewan-based study that is one of the world's largest climate change research projects was front and centre today at an international conference on climate change.

Researchers this morning presented their findings on carbon dioxide storage in EnCana Corporation's Weyburn oil field at a major session of the International Conference on Greenhouse Gas Control Technologies meeting in Vancouver.

The $40 million Weyburn project is a multi-agency initiative conducted under the auspices of the International Energy Agency Greenhouse Gas (IEA GHG) Research and Development Programme, and has resulted in five million tonnes of carbon dioxide stored in the field over the past four years of the project.

Environment Minister David Forbes introduced this morning's session. He noted the project had resulted in the life of the 50 year-old oil field being extended by another 25 years, and had removed an amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere equivalent to taking one million cars a year off the road.

"This project has enormous ramifications and benefits for our environment," Forbes said. "Along with other initiatives, it is part of Saskatchewan's desire to be a leader on addressing the challenges of climate change."

Manager of the project is the Regina-based Petroleum Technology Research Centre (PTRC), which has become internationally recognized for its expertise in geological carbon dioxide storage.

Forbes said the PTRC and the International Test Centre for Carbon Dioxide Capture at Regina Research Park are prime examples of the leading innovation that occurs in Saskatchewan. He told delegates that through such initiatives, Saskatchewan is working to advance its economy in a manner that is environmentally sustainable.

"We're committed to a green and prosperous economy for our province, an economy where industry, business, the environment and our people all win," Forbes said. "On climate change, this huge Weyburn project is a 'win-win' for Saskatchewan."

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-1691