New tools to clean up tailings ponds

March 04, 2026 Media inquiries

Alberta’s government is investing $46 million into cutting-edge technologies that will safely reduce oilsands mine water and reclaim tailings ponds.

Alberta’s oilsands produce some of the most responsible energy in the world. The oilsands have drastically cut freshwater use per barrel and built strong, science-based foundations for responsible closure, but billions of litres are stored in tailings ponds.

Alberta’s government is investing $46 million through the TIER fund to develop the innovative technologies needed to safely and effectively reduce tailings ponds and clean the water. Led by three major oil companies, a post-secondary institution and two businesses, this funding will help reclaim the water in tailing ponds and eventually return the land for use by future generations.

“The world is looking for responsibly produced energy, and Alberta is delivering. With industry leadership and TIER investment, we’re deploying technologies that clean up mine water, protect land and water, and deliver the jobs and competitiveness Alberta needs.”

Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas