Long distance commuting in the mining and oil and gas sectors: Implications for rural regions

Abstract

This paper introduces the special section on the implications of long distance commuting (LDC) in the mining and oil and gas sectors on rural regions. The papers in the special section draw largely from the Canadian context but also from international examples and comparative analysis to further illuminate the challenges and opportunities such work arrangements present for rural communities, residents and organizations. This introductory paper provides a brief overview of the growing trend of ‘mobility’ including LDC, which can occur along a spectrum from commuting that includes long absences from home to extended daily commutes. This mobility has become particularly important for the extractive industries, and specifically the mining and oil and gas sectors. This paper also discusses the implications of LDC for source and host communities and the role of policy and planning in mitigating these impacts.