Fracking Resumes in UK After Seven-Year Pause, Sparking Controversy
Cuadrilla has resumed fracking in the UK after a seven-year pause, sparking controversy and protests. The company completed its second shale gas well this summer, coinciding with a water shortage and hosepipe ban in parts of England. The British Geological Survey estimates significant shale gas reserves in the UK, but the practice faces opposition from various governments and environmental concerns.
The UK government is pushing for fracking, despite opposition from the Labour government, the Scottish government's shale gas moratorium, and the Welsh government's promise to block applications. Cuadrilla has started operations at its Preston New Road site in Lancashire. Fracking has been linked to increased earthquake activity, with Oklahoma experiencing more seismic events than California. It also faces criticism for environmental impacts such as water usage, sand mining, habitat destruction, and methane release.
The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been accused of encouraging the industry to relax safety standards related to earthquake prevention. Despite these concerns, fracking has generated substantial profits for a select group of banks and investors. Activists continue to protest against fracking, using direct action methods like blocking entrances and chaining themselves to equipment.
Fracking's return to the UK has reignited debates about energy policy, environmental impact, and local community concerns. Energy minister Claire Perry suggested relaxing safety standards to prevent minor earthquakes from halting operations. As Cuadrilla resumes fracking, activists pledge to continue their opposition, highlighting the complex and divisive nature of this issue.
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