The regulator says the decision was made to protect workers and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.Chow-Fraser said the suspensions will affect Wood Buffalo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site downstream from Alberta’s oilsands.
Federal assessments have already acknowledged the park is under threat and UNESCO has warned that the park’s status could be endangered if environmental problems aren’t addressed in a federal action plan.[ Sign up for our Health IQ newsletter for the latest coronavirus updates ]“That action plan references all these provincial regulations and regulatory bodies that the plan said should protect the park,” Chow-Fraser said.