The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, April 28, edition that the Newfoundland and Labrador government has approved hikes in greenhouse gas emissions at the Cenovus Energy-owned White Rose oil field off the coast of St. John's. A Canadian Press dispatch to The Globe reports that Cenovus estimates that its new West White Rose platform will increase oil field emissions by about 21 per cent at peak operation, equivalent to around 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. This is similar to the annual emissions from over 23,300 vehicles, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The West White Rose project was roundly applauded for bringing hundreds of construction jobs to rural Newfoundland and for extending the life of the White Rose oil field by about 14 years. A massive component was built in Argentia, Nfld., and towed out to the oil field last year. Its effect on greenhouse gas emissions has not been as widely discussed. Climate scientist Marilena Geng expressed a desire for more discussions on the greenhouse gas emissions from these projects. However, she questioned the effectiveness of increased awareness, noting that issues like affordability and geopolitical instability overshadow climate concerns.