How can you balance the needs of the community with the goals of the oil exploration project?

I cannot agree more. Involving the community at concept/ design stage brings different insights and enables inclusive development that is more sustainable. A business case approach with the community works better provided the community is trained and capacities. Community share ownership will minimise conflict.

Think co-creation. Involve the community not just as stakeholders but as partners in the project. Giving the community a say in decision-making processes allows them to share in the economic benefits and developing programs or initiatives that address their needs directly. For instance, a portion of the project’s revenue could be allocated to community development funds managed by local leaders.

Balancing community needs with oil exploration goals requires early and proactive engagement. Start by involving the community in discussions from the beginning, listening to their concerns, and understanding their needs. Clearly communicate the project’s goals, potential impacts, and benefits. Collaborate on solutions that align with both community interests and project objectives, such as minimizing environmental impacts, creating local job opportunities, and investing in community development. This approach builds trust, fosters cooperation, and ensures the project progresses smoothly while respecting the community’s well-being.

Develop a robust crisis preparedness and response plan that includes the community. This means not only preparing for environmental or safety incidents but also considering the social and economic impacts that such incidents could have on the community. The plan should be developed in consultation with the community and include clear communication channels and support mechanisms.

Recently in my MBA I looked at the Coastal GasLink pipeline and what was happened with the Wet’suwet’en. The dispute was between the elected council, created by the Indian Act, and the hereditary chiefs that predated the Indian Act. The elected council saw the economic benefits of this pipeline and they recently acquired 10% share in this pipeline which will go to community projects and help improve their quality of life. Oil and gas companies are now seeing communities where they work as being vital stakeholders into their projects and are actively engaging them into what they are doing. These stakeholders also receive a percentage of the royalties and many oil and gas companies help fund projects in the community such as schools.

Consider the legacy of the project from the outset. This involves planning for what happens after the project ends, ensuring that the community is left with lasting benefits, whether that’s through infrastructure, skills development, or environmental restoration.