A recent poll indicates that a significant majority of Canadians believe pipelines are crucial for the country's economic future. The survey, conducted by Leger, reveals that 72% of respondents consider new pipelines important for Canada's economy.

The online survey included over 4,000 Canadian adults from various regions. It found that 49% support the Alberta government's proposal for a new oil pipeline that would connect Alberta to the northwest coast of British Columbia. This project aims to expand markets for Canadian energy in Asia.

In early October, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced plans to submit a proposal to the federal government’s Major Project Office for the pipeline's construction. The province is investing $14 million in preliminary studies and regulatory work, with hopes that a private company will eventually take over the project. This initiative has reignited tensions between Alberta and British Columbia, which have historically clashed over energy developments.

Despite the political landscape, 55% of those surveyed expressed confidence that pipelines could be constructed while still protecting the environment. When asked to prioritize between pipeline development and climate goals, 45% of respondents preferred a balance of both.

"Canadians don’t see this as a black and white issue," said Jennifer McLeod Macey, senior vice-president of public affairs at Leger. "They want to grow the economy and protect the environment at the same time."

The survey also highlighted regional differences in opinions on pipeline development. Support was highest in Alberta at 63%, while only 41% of respondents in Quebec expressed support. Macey noted, "The data shows just how regional this debate remains in our country. Alberta and the Prairie provinces certainly differ from the rest of Canada, and Quebec is very much a distinct society."

Gender differences were also evident in the survey results. Men showed a higher level of support for the pipeline project at 58%, compared to just 40% of women. Macey remarked, "It’s really surprising to me when we look at the sentiments of men versus women on a number of issues, and we see this in the energy space as well. Men tend to lean more conservative, and women are more likely to hold a neutral or unsure opinion on a given issue."

The survey results suggest a generational shift in attitudes toward energy and environmental issues. Support for the Alberta pipeline project was only 40% among those aged 18-34, while 56% of respondents aged 55 and older supported it. Macey noted that public sentiment has evolved over the past 25 years, stating, "It’s no longer the case of environmental impact versus the economy. It’s really all intertwined, and I think there is a greater understanding among Canadians of a balanced mix between the two."

The ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States may also be influencing public opinion on pipelines. Macey stated, "People are concerned about the reliability of our energy and recognize the growth that pipelines bring for Canada as a whole. Natural resources are a huge piece of the puzzle. We’re in unprecedented times, and Canadians are concerned about energy bills and this country’s economic future."

"Canadians want things that are both practical and principled," Macey added. "Energy progress is a part of that. We’re not looking for an extreme. We’re looking for balance."

The polling was conducted from October 17 to October 19, 2025, with results weighted to ensure a representative sample of the Canadian population. The margin of error for a sample of this size is ±1.5%, 19 times out of 20.