Ever since the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipeline project was announced, it has been a source of controversial debate. In particular, the First Nations of B.C., including the Nak’azdli, have been strongly against it as most of the oil pipeline is planned to run through their traditional lands. If an oil spill does occur, the First Nations’ lifestyles will be greatly damaged as much of their traditions, such as gathering or fishing, are rooted in their land. Due to the Constitution Acts of 1867, First Nation land are protected by the Supreme Court and can not be used without their permission. This is a social and political factor that imposes a huge barrier on the pipeline’s development. As the traditional territory is so important to the First Nation identity, it will be hard to compromise with such high risks involved.
Another issue that stands out to me is of the First Nations’, and ultimately, B.C.’s economy. The possibility of oil spills leaves the coastal ecosystems, and subsequently, the fishing industry, which contributes greatly to the provincial economy, at high risk. Unless Enbridge is able to provide more security regarding oil spills, it should revisit its business model or develop a value proposition that appeals more to the First Nations and B.C. citizens. If the company does not show its corporate social responsibility, its value proposition, customer relationships, and image will be tarnished, and the project may not even be able to continue, which will be detrimental to the business. The company should take into account the interests of all stakeholders, and not just simply maximizing its profits, if it wants its business to be successful. Therefore, with these external social and economic factors present, I think it will be difficult for the Enbridge pipeline project to progress.
