Imperial Oil's efforts to rebrand itself as progressing toward 'net-zero' while continuing environmentally disruptive operations suggest a pattern of corporate greenwashing. This undermines genuine business practices and ethical responsibility, as the company prioritizes profit and political influence over authentic climate and community welfare.

Big Oil’s Relentless Lobbying Efforts are Obstructing Climate Progress on Parliament Hill

The report clearly outlines Imperial Oil’s proactive approach to supply chain ethics. It details the use of stringent supplier screening processes, risk assessments for potential forced labour, and comprehensive due diligence systems. These measures underscore the company's commitment to ethical sourcing and minimizing risks associated with forced and child labour in its supply chains.

Imperial Oil 2024 Forced Labour Report

The article highlights how Imperial Oil’s actions contribute to regulatory capture, a phenomenon where public regulatory institutions are corrupted by corporate interests. This undermines independent oversight and results in environmental and social harm, particularly affecting Indigenous communities. Such behavior is indicative of severe economic and structural influence that prioritizes corporate profits over public welfare, aligning with practices that facilitate authoritarian governance.

Indigenous leaders warn of regulatory capture in the tar sands. So, what is regulatory capture?

Imperial Oil’s claim that its current water risk disclosures are sufficient is being challenged by shareholders. The lack of proactive measures to enhance transparency on environmental risks reflects negatively on its business ethics and commitment to responsibly managing environmental impacts.

Shareholder motions demand Imperial Oil transparency on water risk, lobbying

The call for improved transparency on environmental risks points to deficiencies in Imperial Oil's business practices and ethical responsibility. Failing to adequately address water-related pollution and climate change challenges not only harms communities but also underscores a reluctance to be held accountable for environmental stewardship.

Shareholder motions demand Imperial Oil transparency on water risk, lobbying

Imperial Oil's dismissal of shareholder demands for greater disclosure on its lobbying activities raises serious questions about its public and political behavior. By rejecting calls for increased accountability in political expenditures, the company is seen as perpetuating opaque practices that may indirectly support authoritarian interests.

Shareholder motions demand Imperial Oil transparency on water risk, lobbying

Imperial Oil’s corporate policies explicitly incorporate the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and fundamental ILO declarations. Their strong stance against forced labor, child labor, and discrimination, along with support for collective bargaining, demonstrates a high level of ethical labor practices. This commitment significantly reduces their complicity in systemic human rights abuses and authoritarian economic practices.

Respecting human rights

Imperial Oil's detailed statement on labor practices underscores a robust commitment to international labor standards as outlined by ILO declarations. By clearly stating their prohibition of child labor, forced labor, and workplace harassment—as well as affirming the right to collective bargaining—Imperial Oil positions itself favorably in terms of business ethics and labor rights. This proactive stance is a positive step against authoritarian exploitation and aligns with anti-fascist principles by promoting decent, dignified work conditions.

Imperial statement on labour and the workplace