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Author: Bjorn Claes, Sonia Siraz
  • Activity
  • 5 minutes

Legitimate or illegitimate: Fracking

Updated Friday, 26 May 2017
What is fracking? Why is it controversial? The first case in the 'Shades of grey - legitimate or illegitimate?'  tool focuses on the legitimacy of fracking.

This page was published over 6 years ago. Please be aware that due to the passage of time, the information provided on this page may be out of date or otherwise inaccurate, and any views or opinions expressed may no longer be relevant. Some technical elements such as audio-visual and interactive media may no longer work. For more detail, see how we deal with older content.

fracking image for legitimacy Fracking - or hydraulic fracturing - is a technique in which water and chemicals are pumped into rock at high pressure to extract shale gas. Proponents point that fracking allows appropriate use of natural resources as it allows access to difficult-to-reach resources of oil and gas. It has significantly boosted domestic energy production and energy independence, driving down gas prices. Opponents point to environmental and health concerns: small earth tremors, high water requirements, and possible water and chemical contaminations.

The debate on the real need for shale gas is ongoing. 

So, what is your opinion on fracking? Take part in our interactive tool 'Shades of grey - legitimate or illegitimate?' to explore this case further.

Find out more about this tool

  • Shades of grey - legitimate or illegitimate?

    Shades of grey - legitimate or illegitimate?

    Opinions differ about activities such as fracking, genetically modified foods or foie gras, often leading to controversy. Are these activities legitimate or not? What do you think? 

    Take part now to access more details of Shades of grey - legitimate or illegitimate?

    Activity

    Level: 1 Introductory

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    Read now to access more details of Fracking: No need for all the fuss

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  • Fracking: Is it possible to persuade the public that the benefits outweigh the risks

    Fracking: Is it possible to persuade the public that the benefits outweigh the risks

    Communities across the UK (and beyond) have come together to protest against fracking in their areas. But there are strong economic imperatives which make governments and oil companies keen to exploit shale gas. Can the gap between the two sides be closed?

    Read now to access more details of Fracking: Is it possible to persuade the public that the benefits outweigh the risks

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    Level: 1 Introductory

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    Learn more to access more details of Living without oil

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