Neslen, A. (2016, September 29). The rise and fall of fracking in Europe. Retrieved November 21, 2016, from https://www.theguardian.com/sustainablebusiness/2016/sep/29/fracking-shale-gas-europe-opposition-ban
Three years ago, Europe looked poised to enter a shift towards the use of shale gas. Fracking was a cheap process that resulted in reduced environmental impact. However, in those three years, France, Germany, and Scotland have banned the practice of fracking. The idea of a shale gas revolution seems to have disappeared, even though it seems like shale gas is the best option as a bridging fuel to a lower carbon future. Europeans seem to be unclear as to whether shale gas would actually lower emissions and with oil at such low prices, it doesn’t seem like Europe will switch to shale gas anytime soon.
Shale gas has lower carbon emissions than other commonly used alternatives and seems like the best way to lower environmental impact. Europe switching to shale gas could lower human’s’ impact on the environment a significant amount. The same factors that cause Americans to call for the ban of fracking seems to hold Europeans back from practicing fracking.
This is interesting! Are there any negatives of switching to shale gas?
This is really fascinating! Why would they stop fracking all of a sudden though?
I wasn’t aware so much of Europe has banned fracking, which is actually quite concerning seeing as we are doing so much of it. I’m curious as to how much coal they use, and if there may have been some corruption that originated from coal and other fossil fuel companies that led to this ban.