The European Union is considering a proposal that could ease restrictions on importing crude derived from the oilsands.
The EU's 18 member countries had sought to discourage imports of high-carbon fuel in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As part of that initiative, oil from Alberta's oilsands was considered separately from conventional oil and was rated as 22 per cent more carbon intensive.
That proposal was opposed by Canadian governments, who attacked the science behind it.
This week, the EU tabled a revised proposal that eliminates a separate category for oilsands-derived fuel.
The proposal must first be considered by the heads of state of member countries as well as the European Parliament.
