Coastal GasLink Pipeline Ltd. has been handed a third fine of over $213,000 for non-compliance with requirements related to its environmental assessment certificate.
The fine, which was issued by the Environment Assessment Office (EAO), was issued due to continued issues with erosion and sediment control measures.
The issue was first identified during inspections of pipeline construction in February 2022, says the province.
“The EAO takes matters of compliance with the conditions of all environmental assessment certificates seriously,” states a release from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
“More than 50 inspections have been carried out along the pipeline construction route since the project started in 2019, with 37 warnings, 17 orders and two prior financial penalties.”
CGL was fined $72,500 in February 2022 and $170,100 in May 2022.
The most recent fine totals $213,600 for non-compliance near Kitimat.
According to the release, CGL’s 2014 environmental assessment certificate requires implementation of an environmental management plan.
The plan is required to include measures to protect sensitive wetlands and waterways from sediment caused by erosion, which can negatively impact water quality and fish habitat.
Recurring issues with erosion and sediment control over the past year have resulted in several compliance and enforcement efforts, including more inspections.
The EAO and CGL entered into a compliance agreement in July 2022 which required CGL to follow more proactive measures to control erosion and sediment.
More fines could be on the way for the company, says a release. Compliance and enforcement officers are recommending additional financial penalties related to 2022 inspections.
Either way, the EAO says it will continue to actively monitor construction of the CGL pipeline to ensure crews are meeting all requirements of the environmental assessment certificate.
