LNG carriers put residents in Howe Sound & Vancouver at risk

70–100 transits per year

The proposed LNG carrier route from Woodfibre LNG runs along the shore of West Vancouver and through Howe Sound, with 70 to 100 transits proposed per year. The LNG carrier route cuts across three BC Ferries routes carrying thousands of daily passengers. Howe Sound is notorious for strong winds and has several narrow passages. The ability to maneuver a massive LNG carrier is highly restricted. Each LNG carrier would need to be assisted by three or four tugboats. If an LNG carrier collided with a ferry or ran aground and caught fire, the impacts could be devastating.

Violating international safety standards

LNG carriers have a relatively good safety record thanks to strict international guidelines. These guidelines are not being followed by Woodfibre LNG.

No regulations in Canada

Canada has no regulations for LNG carriers, and the potential conflict between recreational boaters, ferries, and LNG carriers has not been adequately assessed.
Woodfibre LNG’s carriers are currently being assessed by Transport Canada using outdated 2014 TERMPOL guidelines (instead of more stringent 2019 guidelines).