The taxes and royalties from natural resources are huge. I think everyone is realizing it, probably even the NDP. BC needs mining in a big way ... forestry is still hurting overall and mining will keep BC/Canada profitable for decades if managed well.

Interesting link, look forward to watching. Lots being done to rebrand the image of the oil sands, and some actual real work being done to make them greener. Same for mining ... it is a huge part of our economy, it is necessary, but we must find the right environmental safeguards and communicate this well. Lots of companies started communicating about Corporate Social Responsibility in the 90's, and now they are all talking healthy/safety and environmental in greater ways.

See related article: Natural Resources Drive Almost 20% of Canada's economy.

http://business.financialpost.com/2012/09/04/natural-resources-drive-20-of-canadas-economy-ottawa-says/