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ARTICLE · 18 JULY 2012

UK Government Report Finds That Fracking Can Be Managed Effectively

Vinson & Elkins LLP
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The risk of fractures propagating from shale formations to overlying aquifers is very low provided that shale gas extraction takes place at depths where it is typically most feasible.

United StatesEnvironment
Casey Hopkins
Casey Hopkins
Charles Chipchase
Charles Chipchase
Kevin Atkins
Kevin Atkins
Larry Nettles
Larry Nettles
James Prince
James Prince
Robert Schick
Robert Schick
James Thompson, III
James Thompson, III

On June 29, 2012, the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering (the "Royal Society") published an independent review (the "Report"), commissioned by the UK government's Chief Scientific Advisor, which analyzed the current scientific and engineering evidence relating to the risks associated with the use of hydraulic fracturing (or "fracking"). The Royal Society concluded that ensuring well integrity is the highest priority in fracking operations and that the health, safety, and environmental risks associated with fracking could be effectively managed in the UK so long as operational best practices are implemented and enforced through regulation.

The Report made certain recommendations to effectively manage the risks associated with fracking, which included the following principal recommendations:

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