Many of Suncor's operations are located on or near traditional Aboriginal lands. Their needs and priorities must be heard when deciding how we operate our business.

Suncor is working to develop strong, mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal communities near our operations in northeastern British Columbia, the oil sands of northern Alberta, the Great Lakes of Ontario and in the United States. We are guided by our Aboriginal Affairs Policy that is built around the principles of responsibility, recognition and respect. Our objectives include:

• Sharing in economic success. Suncor works closely with Aboriginal communities to create business partnerships and employment opportunities.
• Improving communication. Aboriginal leaders have told us they are finding the consultation process on numerous new oil sands projects to be a burden. As a result, we're now working with Alberta regulators, and First Nations and Métis representatives in the Wood Buffalo region to find more efficient and effective ways to consult with them.
• Understanding environmental impacts. We also work closely with Aboriginal stakeholders to ensure that they understand any environmental impacts on their traditional lands. Where possible, we incorporate traditional environmental knowledge into our plans.
• Supporting social well-being. The Suncor Energy Foundation invests in Aboriginal education programs, leadership development, community services and cultural events.
• Celebrating Aboriginal achievement. Suncor became a sponsor of the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards in 2001. Since then, we have played host to nearly 100 young adults from across Canada at this annual celebration of Aboriginal accomplishments.