Shell Moves To Transparency in Unconventional Developments

A unit of Royal Dutch Shell has moved to address public concerns about tight/shale oil and gas development, especially regarding the controversial technique of hydraulic fracturing.

Shell in the United States has made its Global Onshore Tight/Shale Oil and Gas Operating Principles available to the public with examples of how the company delivers them.

"We understand there is concern around the development of shale gas, and we must give the public more knowledge of how we operate," said Marvin Odum, President, Shell Oil Company.

Shell says it supports the disclosure of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing fluids, the monitoring of groundwater, and a reduction in the amount of water used in the drilling process.

The company states it does not fracture wells unless it has pressure tested the wellbore for integrity.

Shell said that it recycles as much water at each project as reasonably practicable. Pointing to its activities in the Marcellus Shale, the company states that it recycles almost 100% of produced fluids, substantially reducing fluid waste and reducing the amount of water volumes needed for hydraulic fracturing.

"These principles manage the risk we know exists when producing energy, but just as importantly, they demonstrate our operational integrity and focus on collaboration, underpinning our belief that natural gas can be produced safely and responsibly," said Odum.    

Read the Shell principles fact sheet HERE