Water Management
Oil sands extraction and processing currently requires large quantities of water. In oil sands mining, heated water is used to separate the sticky bitumen from sand. In the in-situ operations, steam is generated to heat the bitumen underground allowing it to flow to the surface.
Total E&P Canada is committed to reducing water use in our oil sands extraction activities. We are applying industry-leading practices at our Joslyn Asset in order to reduce fresh water use. For example:
- It is estimated that up to 80% of the Asset’s water requirements will be satisfied using recycled water.
- During operations, no processed water will be discharged to the environment.
- All processed water will be managed in a closed-circuit processed water recycle system.
- A unique 90 day operational water storage system will be utilized, which exceeds industry standards and reduces the impact of water withdrawal from the Athabasca River.
We are committed to building a permanent fresh water lake and reconstructing a stream to restore fish habitat. Also, the use of drier tailings—through our segregated tailing management plan—will make our Joslyn North Mine Project less water intensive and will facilitate the land reclamation process.
