New Energy Video Launched in Amherst

Lights, camera, action...gas? Students at E.B. Chandler Middle School got a sneak peek today, June 19, at a new educational video created by the Nova Scotia Department of Energy.

The half-hour video, called Nova Scotia's Energy, takes students through all aspects of oil and natural gas in Nova Scotia. From formation to exploration; from development and production to refining, the many business and career opportunities available in the oil and natural gas industry and the impact of fossil fuel consumption on our climate.

Energy Minister Ernest Fage was on hand to present the video and answer questions from the students. "The oil and gas industry is important to our economy and provides exciting opportunities for our young people," said the minister. "This video helps them understand where those resources come from, how they are developed and the impact this industry can have on their careers and their lives."

Using a combination of live footage, interviews and graphic animation, the video tells the story of Nova Scotia's offshore and onshore oil and gas resources in a way that is easily understood by junior and senior high school students.

"We're helping students understand the basic science of oil and natural gas," says Jack MacDonald, senior petroleum geologist with the Department of Energy. "This video gives them a glimpse behind the scenes and introduces them to the many career choices available in this industry."

The video will be in final production over the summer and will be sent to schools and libraries throughout the province in early September 2003. It will also be accessible on the Internet and copies will be available to the general public for a nominal fee.