Our Environmental Performance

BIODIVERSITY

We view biodiversity conservation as an important part of responsible environmental management, and incorporate ways to conserve wildlife habitat into our project planning and maintenance activities.

For example, we carry out detailed environmental impact assessments for new pipeline projects to comply with regulations and meet our own standards. These assess potential impacts on biodiversity to determine if our activities may have significant impacts on wildlife habitat and ecosystems. We also evaluate significant water body crossings on a case-by-case basis to minimize impacts to rivers and streams.

OUR PERFORMANCE

Carrying out environmental screenings for pipeline integrity "digs"

One of our common impacts on land occurs through our ongoing program of maintenance "digs," which involve excavating sections of pipeline to inspect and repair pipe to maintain high levels of system integrity. Before beginning work, we complete screening tests to identify environmental issues and measures needed to minimize our impacts to land, vegetation and wildlife. In 2004, we completed 780 digs along our Liquids Pipelines system in Canada and the United States.

Mapping pipelines for species at risk

In Canada, some of our liquids pipelines are regulated under the Species at Risk Act, which provides legal protection of wildlife species and the conservation of biological diversity. In 2004, we mapped the Canadian mainline system, using digital mapping technology, to identify areas along parts of our right-of-way where there may be species at risk. We consolidated this information into a database tool that enables safety and environment staff to identify sensitive wildlife habitat at specific locations before our company undertakes smaller projects or pipeline maintenance digs.

Purchasing wetlands credits

In the United States, we conducted environmental assessments before constructing a 172-kilometre (107-mile) expansion to our East and Northeast Texas natural gas systems. Although no endangered species were identified, our studies showed our construction activities would result in the loss of some wetland areas. To offset this damage, we purchased wetlands credits from several conservation agencies regulated by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Our investments will be used to preserve 130 hectares (330 acres) of wetlands in Texas.

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At Enbridge, there are no dividing lines between good business practices and being a responsible company — one that is ethical, is a steward of the environment, is safe, engages its stakeholders and is attentive to social needs.

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