Although natural gas has been hailed as a clean energy alternative, the process to extract it through hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, directly contradicts natural gas’ green intentions.
Fracking is a controversial method that, according to a Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions report, “involves shooting a high pressured mixture of water, sand and chemicals deep underground, to release natural gas in shale rock.”
B.C. happens to be home to one of the world’s largest shale rock formations.
A recent Oscar-nominated documentary by Josh Fox, tilted Gasland, should serve as a warning for British Columbians to the potential dangers associated with fracking.
"In the absence of public reporting on fracking chemicals, industry water withdrawals and full mapping of the nation's aquifers, rapid shale gas development could potentially threaten important water resources if not fracture the country's water security," according to B.C. journalist Ben Parfitt in an article published by the Tyee.
While there is an abundance of criticism surrounding fracking, there are obvious economic benefits for the province.
Natural gas also has the potential to be a stepping-stone to a low carbon economy.
Unfortunately the positive benefits of natural gas as a replacement energy source have been tarnished by a lack of appropriate government regulation.
The provincial government needs to set up a neutral body to regulate and impose strict guidelines regarding natural gas drilling.
Without government regulation, Fox’s Gasland may become a terrible reality for British Columbians.
Brian Jones, Jen O’Rourke & Matthew Bossons
