Frack or Fiction?

This month Hazel Gibson of Plymouth University joined us to talk about the very current issue of fracking.

Specifically, Hazel wanted to show us that scientists need to think about how fracking and geology as a whole will be perceived by a less informed audience such as the general public.

For example, Hazel showed us that 'fracking' doesn't only mean to inject liquid a high pressure to open fissures and thus extract oil or gas.  Urban slang gives 'fracking' numerous meanings from 'to betray' and 'to bungle' to...erm...'pleasure oneself'.

She also was keen to emphasise that fracking is a method that can be used to not just extract gas and oil but also to create environmentally sustainable energy options.  For example, by drilling down into the earth to where superheated water lies and then using that water and steam to drive turbines in a geothermal power station.

Of course, whilst Hazel's talk was mainly about the perceptions of fracking it was inevitable that the pros and cons of fracking for oil and gas would be discussed.  Heather explained that it was hard to use the United States as an guide to what might happen in the U.K. as there are so many differences.  Different geology, a different legislative structure regarding how fracking is controlled and the fact that there were no baseline studies in the United States.  Because of the lack of any such studies it's impossible to definitively say how things have changed.  However, the Environment Agency is carrying out such studies in advance of any fracking.

Hazel also took to task the idea that fracking would contaminate the water course with methane.
Setting fire to tap water has been an internet hit.  It's also been latched onto by many anti fracking activists as proof of just how dangerous fracking can be.  However, Hazel pointed out that finding methane in water, drinking or not, is not a new thing.

Infact, the fact that there is methane in the water isn't due to the fact that fracking is taking place nearby.  It's far more likely that fracking is taking place nearby because there is methane in the water supply which is a good indicator of a viable gas deposit ripe for extraction.

Hazel was a very lively and interesting guest with a real gift for public speaking and audience engagement. Highly recommended to any other Skeptics groups.

NEXT MONTH: Tamasin Cave from Spinwatch will talk to us about the lobbying industry ans why she thinks it is distorting our democracy. Thursday 18th September - 7:30pm - North End Social Club - More details HERE.