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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 8 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 Please be aware that due to the passage of time, the information provided on this page may be out of date or otherwise inaccurate, and any views or opinions expressed may no longer be relevant.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.

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