In a policy position paper published today, CIWEM called on
government to put in place robust regulation and make environmental risk
assessments mandatory for any hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking”,
proposals.
Supporters of shale gas have cited experiences in the United States,
where the development of unconventional resources has led to gas prices
falling. However, CIWEM argued differences in geology, mineral rights
and stricter regulation in the UK “would preclude a similar situation
occurring”.
Nick Reeves, CIWEM’s executive director, said: “Pursuing shale gas
will make it more difficult to reach our climate change commitments and
renewable energy targets; its development must not become a distraction
from the necessary drive for energy efficiency and clean renewable
energy.”