Booms, Busts and Bitumen: The economic implications of Canadian oilsands development looks at the side effects of the oilsands boom in uncertain economic times and presents a counterpoint to the frequently overstated economic benefits of oilsands expansion.

The report indicates that the overwhelming majority of economic benefits — both direct and indirect — are limited to Alberta. Other provinces will benefit less: even the United States would gain more employment opportunities from the oilsands than the rest of Canada if projected oilsands development goes ahead. Meanwhile, the economic side effects of the oilsands boom, such as a high dollar that makes it harder for manufacturers to compete globally, are being felt across the country.

If the $1.3 billion in government subsidies given to the oil and gas sector, were invested in renewable energy and energy efficiency, Canada would create 18,000 jobs.