UK: Environment Agency Backs Fracking

UK's Environment Agency has signaled its approval for hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") to proceed in the developments of shale gas resources.

Lord Chris Smith, the head of the Environment Agency, gave his backing to the controversial technique in comments today.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Lord Smith acknowledged that process was capable of causing environmental risks, but with careful monitoring these may be overcome.

He said said that provided that it is done carefully and safely,  shale gas could provide a “useful” energy resource alongside nuclear and renewable energy.

Pointing to the UK's dimishing North Sea resources, Lord Smith addressed energy security issues.

“The source of a domestically available gas supply would, of course, be potentially very beneficial for our energy needs. It could provide energy security, which we don't necessarily have when we import gas from abroad. It could be affordable," he said.

In April, a report released by an independent scientific panel commissioned by the UK government gave cautious approval to the resumption of hydraulic fracturing in the UK after the practice was put on hold after two small earthquakes near to Blackpool were thought to be linked to operations being undertaken by Cuadrilla Resources.