Preserving Biodiversity
Biological diversity, or biodiversity, refers to all forms of life on our planet. As a responsible global energy developer, Total SA made a very early commitment to protect biodiversity with particular focus on sensitive environments.
Biodiversity in Alberta
Faster Forests
Boreal Forest in Alberta
With traditional land reclamation programs, companies plant a mix of grass seeds; then, trees develop naturally over time, which can take years. To accelerate this process, Total E&P Canada, along with four other oil sands producers, piloted a program—called Faster Forests—whereby thousands of seedlings were planted in 2009.
Based on a University of Alberta study, three tree species were planted: spruce, birch and aspen. Future plans include various species of shrubs and wildflowers. Selections will be made not only for habitat enhancement, but in consultation with local First Nations, vegetation will be identified that may have a traditional use.
Total E&P Canada is also involved with the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute
(ABMI) on projects relating to the monitoring and conservation of biodiversity in the region.
Environmental Offsets
Total’s management of biodiversity issues are an integral part of our oil sands strategy and operations. In partnership with the Alberta Conservation Association, Total E&P Canada took the voluntary initiative to ensure 56 hectares (138 acres) of conservation land was set aside in the boreal region of Alberta as an offset for our former Joslyn SAGD operation. We will ensure an additional 500 hectares (1,235 acres) of conservation land will be set aside as an offset for our Joslyn Asset.
Global Biodiversity
Aerial view of coral reef:
Tetiaroa Atoll, in the French Polynesia
As early as 1992, Total created the Foundation for Biodiversity and the Sea, and has a defined biodiversity policy (see our Biodiversity Policy Overview document). In 2007, Total issued practical biodiversity guidelines for operational employees.
Our process begins with a detailed survey of the site, ecosystems and local issues. Protection involves action plans defined very early on in the process. We also monitor the effectiveness of measures taken, such as creating wildlife corridors and reducing our physical footprint.
Objectives for Preserving Biodiversity
- Minimize ecosystem impact throughout the lifetime of our facilities, so that sites are as close to their original condition as possible when we leave
- Integrate biodiversity preservation in our environmental management system
- Pay special attention to regions that are especially rick or vulnerable in terms of biodiversity
- Contribute to scientific advances and dissemination of knowledge about species and biodiversity issues
- Coordinate our biodiversity initiatives with our community relations processes to help local communities preserve the richness of their natural environment
