The perfect storm may be upon us.

A volatile mix of low oil prices, a low loonie and an enviro-movement that appears to be getting more air time than those who champion the energy industry.

Whether it's the predictable anti-industry lobby groups or opportunistic politicians beyond Alberta's borders, their chorus is growing louder.

Those who defend the economic engine of our nation – yes, the oilpatch still retains that title – appear to be dismissed far more easily than those who oppose them.

Never mind that those standing up for oil come from a variety of political stripes and backgrounds. From Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall to Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi to Wildrose Opposition Leader Brian Jean.

Even the oft-reluctant Alberta NDP is growing a spine against those who criticize our energy industry.

So, while it's trendy to preach of a world without oil and coal and all things remotely harmful, a quick reality check proves the notion foolish.

A responsible and prosperous energy sector benefits everyone.

It's farcical that Montreal's mayor can gang up with other like-minded Quebec politicians to block a pipeline to get Alberta's oil to the East coast.

But, at the moment, it's trendy to wrap oneself in the cloak of enviro-protector and ignore the economic reality facing Alberta and Canada as a whole.

When it comes to Canada's energy industry, environmental prudence is paramount.

But dismissing any and all pipelines will not only hurt Alberta, but all of Canada.

We can paint it however we choose, but Canada is - and likely always will be - a resource economy dependent on the ability to export.

Putting roadblocks around that for regional political gain does a disservice to all Canadians.

The future of pipelines appears more questionable each headline.

But one thing is for certain.

The phone booth must be overflowing with self-serving, self-professed enviro-superheroes who have no issue castigating Alberta for their own political gain.