Squamish Woodfibre LNG project gets federal environmental approval

The federal minister of environment and climate change has approved the environmental assessment of a controversial LNG project near Squamish, B.C.

The Squamish mayor and residents of the coastal town have repeatedly voiced their concerns and opposition to the proposedWoodfibreLNG project, which is expected to produce and export up to2.1 million tonnes ofLNGper year.

"The Woodfibre LNG Project underwent a thorough, science-based environmental assessment that considered public and indigenous input and views," said Minister CatherineMcKenna in a written statement.

"The process benefited from scientific and technical expertise, indigenous traditional knowledge and constructive feedback that helped to inform my decision."

• LNG plant near Squamish clears first hurdle in environmental assesment
• Woodfibre LNG worries Squamish First Nation amid Howe Sound revitalization
• LNG protest attracts dozens of boaters to Horseshoe Bay

The decision includes a lengthy list oflegally-binding conditions, including consultation with aboriginal groups, mitigating the impact on fish habitat and migratory birds, and implementing noise and air emission reduction measures.

The project cleared its first hurdle last October, when it was granted an environmental assessment certificate by the B.C. government.

Thatcertificate includes 25 conditions meant to mitigate the negative impactsconstructionand operation of the plant will have on things like marine life and water quality.

The company proposing the projectsays the Woodfibre LNG plant will create more than 650 jobs per year during the construction phase, and about 100 full-time jobs for more than 25 years.