As for possible disruption from demonstrators, Congress chairman Jim Gray has said he respects the activists' right to protest as long as there is no confrontation or disturbance. The WPC will be the latest target of anti-globalization groups who protested the World Trade Organization and the Organization of American States in recent months. Other activists also believe the industry is responsible for global warming. The demonstrators are calling for the development of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. At the same time, they're asking for a decrease in the use of pollution-causing fossil fuels.
Protest groups say they'll make the public more aware by peaceful non-violent demonstrations.
John Sellers, director of the Ruckus Society, a group that offers courses in effective protesting, says the demonstrations planned for Calgary are intended to spread a message, not shut down the meeting. We want to frame our message of exploitation by oil companies in a peaceful manner. Officers armed with riot gear, including pepper spray, batons and bulletproof vests, patrol the perimeter. Police have blocked off several downtown streets with metal barricades to keep protesters away from main Congress activities during the five-day event. Some businesses have replaced their office windows with shatter-proof glass and have purchased extra insurance in case of riots.