BSR Insight | Is ‘Responsible’ Fracking Possible?
About the Author(s)
Ryan Schuchard, Manager, Climate and Energy
Publication Date
July 24, 2012
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There's little in the current energy debate that isn't a hot button, and "unconventional" natural gas is especially controversial. A report released by the International Energy Agency outlines the challenges and opportunities of natural gas—such as that obtained by hydrofracturing, or "fracking"—and proposes "golden rules" for the industry and regulators to ensure environmental protection and community engagement, while making profitable extraction possible:
- Measure, disclose, and engage.
- Watch where you drill.
- Isolate wells and prevent leaks.
- Treat water responsibly.
- Eliminate venting and minimize flaring and other emissions.
- Be ready to think big (incorporate community needs and regional environmental considerations).
- Ensure a consistently high level of environmental performance.
The world is slowly transitioning to low-carbon alternatives, but fossil fuels will supply the majority of our energy needs for the foreseeable future. BSR's new Future of Fuels initiative provides companies with information on the sustainability impacts of their transportation fuel choices, including on climate change, human rights, and economic development.
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