100 Canadian and U.S. scientists call for oilsands moratorium

A group of 100 Canadian and U.S. scientists has issued an urgent call for governments to place a moratorium on new oilsands projects.

The group’s letter, released on Wednesday, offers 10 reasons why no new oilsands developments should be allowed. (Scroll down to read the full letter.)

The reasons include environmental damage, aboriginal concerns and the need to move the global economy away from its dependence on fossil fuels that cause climate change.

The group includes some of the top biologists, climatologists, economists and political scientists in both countries. Of the 100, 12 are Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada, 22 are Members of the US National Academy of Sciences, five are Recipients of the Order of Canada, and one is a Nobel prize-winner.

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Their letter took over a year to draft and was extensively examined to ensure its assertions were scientifically sound.

A copy has been sent to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, as well as to all members of Parliament.

Below: Letter containing 10 reason why no new oilsands development should be allowed