Euractiv: EU study sparks regulation debate over ‘high-risk’ shale gas

Tough new regulations could be slapped on the shale gas industry if the EU acts upon legislative and environmental failings identified in its most comprehensive analysis yet of the sector.

Shale gas drilling poses a ‘high risk’ to human health and the environment worse than that posed by other fossil fuels. It is also currently unregulated, according to a 300-page risk assessment prepared by the EU.

The study identifies eight high-risk areas related to the cumulative effect of multiple shale installations, such as the contamination and depletion of ground and surface water, and degradation of biodiversity, land, air quality and seismic conditions.  MORE