Public Talk to Uncover Facts on Fracking

The facts about extracting underground shale gas – often called ‘fracking’ – will be discussed at a free public lecture at the University of Derby (UK).

Fracking (or hydraulic fracturing) involves drilling a well, and injecting mixed water and sand into it under high pressure. This frees the gas trapped within layers of shale rock, which can then be extracted.

Energy companies and the Government see this as an untapped energy source on the UK mainland, while environmentalists fear it will ruin the countryside and contaminate underground water sources. Proposed fracking areas are being offered Government cash incentives, French energy giant Total has announced its involvement, and police and protesters have clashed at well sites.

A free University of Derby public talk – entitled Shale Gas – Friend or Foe? – will see a panel of experts take a hard look at the real technical, operational, environmental and commercial issues around the subject, and answer some questions from the audience.

The event will be held at 5pm on Wednesday February 5, in the Courtroom at the University’s main Kedleston Road site, in Derby.

It will be the latest in a series of University ‘Geo-Talks’ exploring topical issues of national and global interest, which relate to how the Earth’s processes work and their impact on people’s lives.

Dr Martin Whiteley, Senior Lecturer in Petroleum Geoscience at the University of Derby, said: “Fracking is rarely out of the news these days. It’s a good example of how natural resources such as shale gas, which have lain underground for millions of years, can have an impact on everyday life.

“We’ll hear from a range of experts at our free event and they’ll be using their in-depth knowledge to make the issues a little clearer.”

This event is free to attend but places must be booked in advance. To book seats go to the University’s ‘What’s On’ website page.